Ghana and Spain spotlight key players ahead of World Cup 2026

Ghana’s national team, coached by Carlos Queiroz, will open the 2026 World Cup in Group L against Panama, England and Croatia. Queiroz has shifted the side to a back‑four formation, with a midfield pivot featuring Elisha Owusu, Thomas Partey and Caleb Yirenkyi, who scored the lone goal in a warm‑up win over Wales. The squad’s main concern is a lack of goals, but striker Antoine Semenyo, fresh off a 17‑goal Premier League season, is expected to lead the attack.

In Group H, Spain’s 19‑year‑old winger Lamine Yamal is rated among the tournament’s top three players. Yamal, a La Liga and Euro champion, aims to add a World Cup title to his résumé before turning 20. He is highlighted alongside Uruguay’s midfielder Federico Valverde and Spain’s own Pedri, underscoring the high‑profile talent the Spanish side brings to the competition.