The Black Stars of Ghana face a tough road at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after being drawn against England, Croatia and Panama in Group L during Friday’s draw in Washington, D.C.
The event, held at the John F. Kennedy Centre for the Performing Arts, confirmed Ghana’s return to the global stage in what is shaping up to be one of the tournament’s most competitive groups.
The Black Stars will square off against two European powerhouses and an improving CONCACAF side. England enter the tournament as one of the favourites, while Croatia—finalists in 2018—bring significant experience and pedigree.
Both will pose major tests as Ghana aim to reach the knockout stage for the first time since 2010. Panama, appearing in their second World Cup after their 2018 debut, completes the group.
Earlier on Friday, England’s participation in Group L was confirmed, joining Ghana, Croatia and Panama in the expanded 48-team tournament.
Forty-two qualified nations were included in the draw, with the remaining six spots to be filled through intercontinental play-offs set for March 2026.
Ghana’s group is part of the full draw for the 2026 World Cup, which will be held across 16 host cities in the United States, Mexico and Canada.
The tournament runs from June 11 to July 19, 2026, with matches scheduled in cities such as Los Angeles, New York, Dallas, Houston, Vancouver, Toronto, Mexico City and Monterrey. The final will be played at the New York New Jersey Stadium.
FIFA will confirm match dates, venues and kick-off times on Saturday, 6 December, with ticketing details and further fan-related information to follow next week.
With the draw complete, Ghana’s technical bench can now begin planning for a group that presents both significant challenges and real opportunities.
The Black Stars will look to build momentum ahead of next summer as they target another memorable World Cup run.
Full 48-team draw below:
Group A: Mexico, South Africa, Korea Republic, Winner of Play-Off D
Group B: Canada, Winner of Play-Off A, Qatar, Switzerland
Group C: Brazil, Morocco, Haiti, Scotland
Group D: USA, Paraguay, Australia, Winner of Play-Off C
Group E: Germany, Curaçao, Côte d’Ivoire, Ecuador
Group F: Netherlands, Japan, Winner of Play-Off B, Tunisia
Group G: Belgium, Egypt, IR Iran, New Zealand
Group H: Spain, Cabo Verde, Saudi Arabia, Uruguay
Group I: France, Senegal, Winner of Play-Off 2, Norway
Group J: Argentina, Algeria, Austria, Jordan
Group K: Portugal, Winner of Play-Off 1, Uzbekistan, Colombia
Group L: England, Croatia, Ghana, Panama
