Sports
2026 World Cup: Mohammed Kudus’ absence will be a big blow to Black Stars – Stephen Appiah
Vice Chairman of Black Stars Management Committee, Stephen Appiah, has admitted that Mohammed Kudus' potential absence will be a big blow to the team ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
The 26-year-old is currently nursing an injury, which could force him to miss the Mundial slated to be hosted in the USA, Canada and Mexico.
Kudus suffered a hamstring injury in January and was expected to return to full fitness in April, but suffered a setback, which has ruled him out of playing in the tournament.
Speaking to Asempa FM, Appiah, who guided the team to secure its first World Cup appearance in Germany in 2006, admits that the absence of the former Ajax and West Ham forward will affect the team.
“We know his contribution to the team, but even during playing days, when a player is not available, we went ahead to play the game, so we should go ahead with that level of belief that when someone is not around, someone will be there to replace him,” he said.
“Kudus is him, and when he is available, and he plays, he gives the team a lift, but we should just pray and see what happens because I am equally impressed with the performance of some of our players playing abroad,” Appiah added.
Before his injury, Kudus had made 19 appearances, scoring two goals.
Meanwhile, the Black Stars will come up against Panama, England and Croatia in Group L.
The Black Stars will open their World Cup journey against Panama at BMO Field in Toronto on June 17 before taking on England in Boston on June 23.
Ghana will conclude their group-stage matches against Croatia at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia on June 27.
Ghana heads into the tournament determined to improve on recent World Cup performances after suffering group-stage exits at the 2014 and 2022 editions.
Source:Fiilasports/ghanasoccernet
