Omanghana
Desmond Ofei has described Ghana’s upcoming international friendly against Mexico national football team as a crucial opportunity for players hoping to secure a place in head coach Carlos Queiroz’s plans for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The high-profile friendly, scheduled for May 22, 2026, will serve as the first major test for Queiroz since his appointment as head coach of the Ghana national football team in April.
Speaking ahead of the match, Ofei stressed that the game is far more than a routine preparation fixture, noting that the technical team is still evaluating the full depth of Ghanaian talent ahead of the World Cup campaign. According to the assistant coach, every player selected for the squad is effectively auditioning for a place in the final tournament roster.
The 23-man squad assembled for the Mexico clash is expected to feature a number of experimental selections due to the match being played outside the official FIFA international calendar. The team includes six home-based players alongside several uncapped and fringe talents who are being given the opportunity to impress the new coaching staff.
Ofei praised the mentality within the camp, describing the squad as an ambitious group determined to prove themselves on the international stage. He added that the coaching staff remains committed to rewarding players who demonstrate consistency, professionalism, and the right mentality both in training and during matches.
Following the encounter with Mexico, Ghana will continue its World Cup preparations with another international friendly against Wales national football team on June 2, 2026. The match is expected to serve as the final rehearsal before the Black Stars begin their Group L campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Ghana will open its tournament journey against Panama national football team on June 17, 2026, in Toronto.
Source: Omanghana
