Former Ghana Football Association Technical Director Oti Akenteng has urged the Black Stars to adopt a more defensive and disciplined approach ahead of the crucial clash against England at the 2026 World Cup.
The West African football heavyweights takes on the Three Lions in a crucial Group L encounter on Tuesday, June 24, 2026, with both teams securing victories in their opening games.
The Black Stars left it late to secure a narrow victory over Panama, thanks Caleb Yirenkyi’s strike deep into stoppage time. England, meanwhile, began their campaign with an entertaining 4-2 win over Croatia.
In an interview with Koforidua-based Swiit FM, the former Hearts of Oak tactician predicted a tough test against England, while advocating for the more defensive approach to neutralize the Three Lions.
“It’s going to be a very difficult game for Ghana because England have great squad depth for this tournament. For me, the Black Stars must remain compact throughout the match if they want to grind out a positive result. We need to match them boot for boot, stay disciplined and take our chances well when attacking” he said.
“The approach against England must be different from the one used against Panama. Carlos Queiroz has worked in England before and understands their style, so his experience should come into play. Ghana must defend well and rely on quick counter-attacks. If we are able to do that effectively, we can frustrate England and get the result we want. The team must stay disciplined, just like Cape Verde did against Spain.”
A victory for either side would place them in a strong position to qualify for the knockout stage, making Monday’s showdown one of the most anticipated matches of the group phase.
England sit top of Group L with three points, followed by Ghana, who are also on three points but trail the Three Lions on goal difference.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com/Sylvester Ntim
