We shouldn’t pressure Black Stars to qualify for 2026 World Cup at all cost - Derek Boateng

Former Black Stars midfielder Derek Boateng has urged Ghanaians to manage their expectations regarding the Black Stars' chances of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup.

Despite their recent 2-1 comeback victory against Mali in Bamako, Boateng believes that the pressure on the team should be relieved, taking into consideration the current state of Ghanaian football.

During the match, Ernest Nuamah equalized Kamoury Doumbia's opener, and Jordan Ayew scored a late goal to secure the three points for Ghana.

Speaking to Joy Sports, Boateng expressed his concerns about the team's performance.

"Our game is really down. We don't have to put pressure on the team to be at the World Cup at all costs. When we win, it's fine, but Ghana doesn't want to be at the World Cup and be out at the group stages like we did in 2014.

"We want to go there and compete. Right now, we're not on our level; we don't have to say we're there because we won against Mali. No, we are not; it takes time to get there.

"If Ghana doesn't qualify for the 2026 World Cup, it's not a failure for us. We must let the team develop and get there, but if we are there (at the World Cup), fine."

Following the victory against Mali, Ghana now has six points from three games. However, they currently sit behind Madagascar and Comoros due to goal superiority.

The Black Stars will face the Central African Republic at the Baba Yara Stadium on Monday as part of the World Cup qualifying series.