Black Stars captain Jordan Ayew has cautioned that Ghana faces no easy path to securing a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, as crucial qualifying fixtures against Chad and Mali loom in September.

Following hard-fought victories over Chad and Madagascar in March, Ghana currently sits atop their qualifying group. The team is now gearing up for two decisive encounters — away to Chad and a home showdown with Mali — on Matchdays 7 and 8.

Two wins in these matches would all but secure Ghana’s place at next year’s expanded World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

Speaking to Ghana FA media, Ayew, who now plies his trade at Leicester City, acknowledged the challenge ahead.

“I think we have a very good chance of making it to the 2026 FIFA World Cup,” he said. “The team fought hard for the points against Chad and Madagascar in March, and that has put us in a very good place on top of the table. But it is not yet over.”

Ayew stressed that the upcoming matches will demand both focus and resilience from the Black Stars.

“We have four more matches to play, and we are focused on winning them. We have Chad and Mali in September; it won’t be easy — same as the games against Central African Republic and Comoros. But with this kind of mentality and team spirit, we will succeed.”

With the stakes higher than ever, Ayew and his teammates are determined to maintain their momentum and deliver another World Cup appearance for Ghana’s passionate football fans.