Itâ??s really amazing â?? Joseph Paintsil opens up on Black Stars World Cup qualification

Ghana international Joseph Paintsil has shared his excitement following the Black Stars qualification to the 2026 World Cup.

Paintsil, who plies his trade for Major League Soccer side LA Galaxy made substitute appearance as the Black Stars secured a narrow win over Comoros last Sunday to confirm World Cup qualification, to be held in the USA, Canada and Mexico next year.

However, the pacey winger has expressed his joy with the qualification, while commending Ghanaians for the unwavering support throughout the qualifying series.

“It’s really amazing” Paintsil said after Black Stars World Cup qualification. “The fans came in their numbers and we really appreciate them a lot. We keep going, we are Black Stars”

Ghana finished on top of Group I, accumulating 25 points from 10 matches, followed by Madagascar (19 points), with Mali finishing third spot (18 points). Comoros placed fourth with 15 points, whereas Central African Republic finished fifth on the table with 8 points.

Meanwhile, Chad emerged as the weakest team in Group I, securing just a point from 10 matches.

The 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, will feature an expanded 48-team format, giving Africa a record nine automatic slots.

Having secured their fifth World Cup qualification, the Black Stars will be hoping to make a meaningful impact at the mundial next year.

Ghana secured their first World Cup qualification in 2006 and has since established themselves as a strong force at the mundial, making quarterfinal appearance at the 2010 edition in South Africa.

Since their maiden World Cup appearance in 2006, the Black Stars has only missed one tournament (2018 in Russia), having competed in 2006, 2010, 2014 and in 2022.

The Black Stars will now turn their attention to the group stage draw on December 5, where they will discover their opponents for the tournament.

Send your news stories to [email protected] and via WhatsApp on +233 546310076.

Read Full Story