Ghana defender Jerome Opoku has urged the Black Stars to remain humble despite their impressive goalless draw against England at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America.
Both nations entered the Group L encounter on the back of opening victories, but it was Ghana who produced a disciplined and resilient display to frustrate the European giants and earn a valuable point.
The four-time African champions stood firm against England’s star-studded attack, extending their unbeaten start to the tournament and strengthening their hopes of reaching the knockout stages.
Speaking after the match, Opoku thanked Ghanaian supporters for their backing and stressed that the team would remain focused on the bigger objective.
“I appreciate the love from the fans. And we’re going to continue to stay grounded,” he said.
The central defender also reflected on the criticism the squad faced before the tournament, revealing that the players had embraced the underdog label as motivation.
“Ghanaians didn’t really think this team was that good, did they? Some people were saying this is the worst team in history, to be honest with you. Me and the boys were talking about it.”
Opoku explained that proving doubters wrong has been a constant source of motivation throughout his career and that the current squad shares the same mentality.
“Through my life, I’ve been an underdog. So there’s nothing unusual about being doubted. It’s been my habit, my habitat. To prove people wrong, I get a buzz from it. And so does the team.”
“Now we’re showing the fans, showing the world what we can do.”
The result leaves Ghana and England level on four points at the top of Group L heading into the final round of matches.
England will take on Panama, while the Black Stars face Croatia in a decisive encounter, with a place in the Round of 32 firmly within their grasp.
