Former Vice President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), George Afriyie, believes Ghana are capable of pulling off a surprise result against England in their upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup Group L encounter.

His comments follow the Black Stars’ impressive start to their campaign, a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Panama on Wednesday night.

Caleb Yirenkyi struck late to secure all three points for the four-time African champions, who are making their fifth appearance at the global tournament.

The result places Ghana second in Group L behind England, who opened their campaign with a 4-2 win over Croatia ahead of the highly anticipated meeting on June 23 at Gillette Stadium.

Speaking on Adom FM, the former Black Stars Management Committee chairman said recent World Cup results have shown that established football powers are no longer invincible, insisting Ghana should approach the fixture with belief and ambition.

Recalling his long involvement with the national team, Afriyie said his experience had taught him that reputation does not guarantee success in international football.

“At one point, I was the chairman of the Black Stars Management Committee. On two occasions, I led the team to the final of the Africa Cup of Nations and later to the semi-finals. I was also part of the Emergency Committee that followed the team to Brazil,” the former Black Stars Management Committee chairman recounted.

“I have been part of the Black Stars for a very long time, and one thing I have realised is that in international football, big names do not always guarantee results.”

He pointed to recent shock results at the tournament as proof that underdogs can compete with the best on their day.

“We all know the pedigree of Portugal in international football, but if Congo can draw with Portugal, then Ghana can draw with England or even beat them,” he said.

“We all know the pedigree of Brazil, and if Morocco can draw with Brazil, then it can happen in the Ghana-England game as well.”

Afriyie also highlighted the growing competitiveness of African teams on the global stage, citing performances from sides such as Côte d’Ivoire and Egypt as evidence of the continent’s strength.

“We should not underestimate ourselves. England is beatable,” he stressed.

He added that his role is to encourage rather than criticise the team, insisting motivation is crucial at this stage of the tournament.

“These young boys are determined to make history. Whenever I am given the platform to speak about the Black Stars, I will only encourage them. I will say things that can inspire and motivate them. I don’t want to be negative.

“As an administrator, I can only encourage them. Others can discuss and dissect the team, but I choose to inspire them,” he added.

Ghana will conclude their group campaign against Croatia four days after the England fixture, with Carlos Queiroz’s side aiming to maintain their strong start and push for a place in the knockout stages for the first time since 2010.