Ghana
Ghana return for their fifth tournament — first since 2022 — with the Black Stars seeking redemption after that bitter Uruguay group-stage defeat. Otto Addo, retained after qualification, leads a squad rebuilt around the next generation. Mohammed Kudus (Tottenham) is the chief creator and unquestioned star; Antoine Semenyo (Bournemouth) and Iñaki Williams (Athletic Bilbao) provide pace and finishing; Thomas Partey, when fit, anchors midfield; Jordan Ayew supplies veteran experience. Ghana reached the quarter-final in 2010 — closest any African nation has come to a semi-final — and the country still mourns the missed Asamoah Gyan penalty. Group L with England, Croatia and Panama is brutal but Ghana have the squad to chase second place. A round-of-16 berth would represent meaningful return to relevance.