Black Stars head coach Carlos Queiroz is expected to unveil Ghana’s provisional squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup later this week as preparations intensify ahead of the global tournament.

The four-time African champions will compete at the expanded World Cup hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico this summer, with Ghana placed in Group L alongside Panama, England and Croatia.

Under FIFA regulations, all 48 qualified nations are required to submit provisional squads before confirming their final tournament lists.

Queiroz, who has taken charge on a short-term basis following Otto Addo’s departure, is expected to present his initial selection in the coming days before trimming it down to a final squad by June 1.

The experienced Portuguese coach will be tasked with shaping a competitive side as Ghana targets a stronger showing on the world stage.

As part of their build-up, the Black Stars will face Mexico in a pre-tournament friendly later this month before concluding their preparations against Wales on June 2.

Ghana will open their World Cup campaign against Panama on June 17 in Toronto, before facing England on June 23 in Boston. Their final group fixture will see them take on Croatia on June 27 in Philadelphia.

This marks Ghana’s fifth appearance at the FIFA World Cup, having previously featured in 2006, 2010, 2014 and 2022. Their most successful run remains the 2010 edition in South Africa, where they reached the quarter-finals.

President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Kurt Okraku, has delivered an emotional send-off message to the Black Starlets ahead of the U-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco later this month.

Ghana have been drawn in Group D alongside Algeria, South Africa and Senegal in what is expected to be a highly competitive pool.

Addressing the team before their departure to Rabat on Wednesday, Okraku reminded the young players of the weight of expectation on their shoulders, urging them to embrace the challenge with confidence.

“You are carrying the hopes of millions of Ghanaians," he said.

"When you step onto that pitch, remember that you are not alone—an entire nation stands behind you,” Okraku added.

The Black Starlets have since arrived in Rabat, where they have begun final preparations for the tournament.

The 2026 U-17 AFCON is scheduled to kick off on May 13, with Ghana opening their campaign a day later against Algeria in a crucial Group D clash.

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