2026 World Cup: Agyemang Badu warns Black Stars against over-reliance on individual brilliance

With Mohammed Kudus ruled out of the tournament set to be staged in the United States, Canada and Mexico, discussions have increasingly centred on Semenyo as a potential talisman following an impressive rise in European football.

The attacker has enjoyed a standout season, earning widespread recognition after a prolific campaign that underlined his growing influence at the highest level.

Despite the hype, Agyemang Badu believes Ghana must resist the temptation to place the team’s fortunes on one individual, stressing that success at the global stage depends on collective strength rather than star power.

“An anchor of the team, yes. But building the team solely around one person, I don’t buy that idea,” Agyemang Badu, who played at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, told Graphic Sports.

“What happens if he gets injured? Then your team is messed up,” he added.

He argued that while Semenyo’s form should be an asset for the Black Stars, it must not become the foundation of the side’s tactical identity.

The former midfielder, who featured at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, warned that relying on hype or individual brilliance could prove costly in tournament football.

Meanwhile, the Black Stars have opened camp in Cardiff with 22 players preparing for their pre-tournament friendly against Wales on June 2. Head coach Carlos Queiroz is expected to name his final squad shortly before the game.

Ghana will compete in Group L alongside Panama, England and Croatia, opening their campaign against Panama on June 17 at BMO Field. They will then face England at Gillette Stadium on June 23 before concluding the group stage against Croatia on June 27.

The four-time African champions are aiming to reach the knockout stage for the first time since their historic run in 2010.

Source:Fiilasports/ghanasoccernet