John Mensah: Former Black Stars Captain Explains How Ghana Can Secure Spot in 2026 World Cup
- Ghana could book their ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup as early as next month, according to John Mensah
- The legendary Black Stars defender believes consistency will be the key to sealing qualification for the global showpiece
- The team may have to do it without star midfielder Thomas Partey, who is unlikely to be named in Otto Addo’s squad
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Former Ghana captain John Mensah has thrown his weight behind the Black Stars’ quest to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting that sustained consistency will be the team’s ticket to the global stage.
The Black Stars currently sit at the top of Group I with 15 points from a possible 18, three clear of nearest challengers Comoros.
Source: Getty Images
With four matches left to play, a doubleheader against Chad and Mali in September could all but confirm Ghana’s return to the biggest football tournament.
The team’s recent displays have reignited belief among fans.
After a shaky run of form earlier in the campaign, the four-time African champions silenced their critics with two commanding performances, scoring eight times without conceding in their last two outings, per Ghanasoccernet.
Source: Twitter
How Ghana can secure 2026 World Cup qualification
Evaluating the mood around the camp, Mensah underlined the importance of chemistry and continuity within the squad.
He believes the current momentum, if maintained, will be enough to book a ticket to North America.
“If they play like the way they played the last two games, I believe they can qualify. They are playing well now, and they know each other very well. I believe if they keep on like that, they can qualify,” Mensah told reporters as quoted by KickGH.
His words come at a decisive moment, with Ghana preparing to face Chad away on Matchday 7 before returning home to host Mali on Matchday 8.
Partey to be excluded from Black Stars squad
While optimism surrounds the team, uncertainty looms over the involvement of Thomas Partey.
The midfielder, now plying his trade in Spain, faces legal proceedings in London, with a court date at the Old Bailey set to clash with Ghana’s September qualifiers.
Otto Addo, who will soon announce his squad, finds himself in a difficult position.
Leaving out Partey would be a massive call, considering his contribution so far in the qualifiers.
In 12 World Cup qualifier appearances, he has been directly involved in 11 goals, scoring nine and assisting twice, including a brace against Madagascar in March.
The situation leaves Ghana with a potential dilemma: maintaining momentum without one of its most experienced and influential players.
Prophet Nigel Gaisie's bold World Cup declaration
In a related report, YEN.com.gh highlighted a bold declaration from Prophet Nigel Gaisie, who insists Ghana’s place at the 2026 World Cup is already secured in the spiritual realm.
The leader of the Prophetic Hill Church Worldwide stressed that his message was not born out of emotions or personal bias but a divine revelation.
He encouraged Ghanaians to hold on to faith, assuring them that regardless of challenges or doubts, Otto Addo’s side will book their spot at the tournament in Canada, USA, and Mexico.
Source: YEN.com.gh
