Inaki Williams Calls on Black Stars to Embrace Pressure and Make History at World Cup

Black Stars forward Inaki Williams has challenged his teammates to rise to the occasion and write a new chapter in Ghana’s World Cup story as the team prepares for its opening match against Panama.

The Athletic Bilbao attacker believes the squad has the talent and determination to make a significant impact at the 2026 FIFA World Cup and has urged his colleagues to embrace the expectations that come with representing Ghana on football’s biggest stage.

Speaking ahead of Wednesday’s Group L clash at BMO Field in Toronto, Williams acknowledged the passion of Ghanaian supporters and the pressure that accompanies the national team but insisted it should serve as motivation rather than a burden.

“We need to give out everything on the pitch; it’s going to be better,” Williams said.

“I know Ghanaians always want to put pressure on us because they love football. And Ghana has history. They made history at the World Cup in 2010, and I think this is an opportunity to try and do the same for our country. Our first game is important because it is what will give us confidence.”

The 30-year-old forward pointed to Ghana’s memorable run to the quarter-finals in South Africa 2010 as proof that the Black Stars can compete with the world’s best. He believes the current squad has the opportunity to create its own legacy if it starts the tournament strongly.

Ghana head into the Panama encounter knowing a positive result could provide a crucial platform in a challenging group that also features England and Croatia.

Williams, who switched allegiance from Spain to Ghana in 2022, is expected to play a leading role in the team’s attack alongside Antoine Semenyo and captain Jordan Ayew.

The Black Stars will, however, be without deputy captain Thomas Partey for the opener following the midfielder’s inability to secure entry into Canada.