Black Stars forward Brandon Thomas-Asante says the team is determined to make Ghanaians proud as preparations intensify ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Ghana heads into the tournament seeking an improved performance after disappointing group-stage exits at the 2014 and 2022 World Cups in Brazil and Qatar respectively.

The Black Stars, who made history by reaching the quarterfinals of the World Cup for the first time in 2010 in South Africa, are currently in Cardiff fine-tuning preparations for the tournament, which will be hosted across the USA, Canada and Mexico.

Thomas-Asante, who plays for Coventry City, described representing Ghana as a lifelong dream and stressed the squad’s commitment to rewarding the faith of supporters.

“It’s always the biggest privilege. It’s something that, since I was young—going to games, praying, believing, and dreaming of achieving it one day—and now to be here is incredible,” Thomas-Asante told Ghana FA Media.

The striker acknowledged the expectations of Ghanaians both at home and abroad, insisting the players are fully aware of the responsibility that comes with wearing the national colours.

“I know there are a lot of people in Ghana and all around the world who are really wishing us well. So we want to go and do them proud, and I understand how much it means—it means so much to me personally,” he added.

Black Stars coach Carlos Queiroz is expected to announce Ghana’s final 26-man squad on June 1 before the team faces Wales in an international friendly at the Cardiff City Stadium on June 2.

Making their fifth appearance at the global tournament, Ghana have been drawn in Group L alongside Panama, England and Croatia.

The Black Stars will begin their campaign against Panama on June 17 at BMO Field before taking on England on June 23 at Gillette Stadium. They will round off their group-stage fixtures against Croatia on June 27.