Black Stars open camp in Wales ahead of World Cup friendly

Nine members of the Ghana national football team have officially reported to camp in Wales as preparations begin for Ghana’s international friendly against Wales scheduled for June 2 in Cardiff.

Among the first batch of players to arrive are captain Jordan Ayew, Abdul Fatawu Issahaku, Gideon Mensah, Jerome Opoku, Marvin Senaya and Alidu Seidu. The players were seen arriving and settling into camp in videos that quickly circulated across social media platforms.

With most European football leagues now concluded for the season, additional players are expected to join the Black Stars camp over the coming days as preparations intensify ahead of the important pre-World Cup fixture.

The Ghana Football Association is yet to officially announce the full squad list for both the Wales friendly and Ghana’s campaign at the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup. However, GFA President Kurt Okraku has confirmed that the official squad announcement will be made on June 1.

Ghana heads into the friendly match seeking to end a difficult run of form after suffering five consecutive defeats in recent international outings. The Black Stars’ most recent match ended in a disappointing 2-0 loss to Mexico national football team.

Head coach Carlos Queiroz has maintained that selection into the World Cup squad will be based strictly on merit, stressing that only players who prove themselves deserving will earn places in the team for the tournament.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will feature an expanded 48-team format, creating increased competition and excitement ahead of the tournament. Ghana has been drawn into Group L alongside England national football team, Croatia national football team and Panama national football team.

The Black Stars will be hoping to advance beyond the group stage and secure their first knockout qualification at the FIFA World Cup since their historic run at the 2010 tournament in South Africa.