Ghana legend Asamoah Gyan believes the Black Stars can still reach the knockout stage at the 2026 FIFA World Cup despite being placed in a difficult group.

The Black Stars were drawn alongside England, Croatia and Panama in Group L following Friday, December 5,’s draw in Washington.

Reacting moments after the draw, Gyan urged Ghanaians to remain optimistic as the team prepares for its fifth appearance at the global showpiece.

“It’s a tricky group. We will do our possible best to qualify from the group stage,” he said, speaking at the venue shortly after the groupings were unveiled.

Placed in Pot 4 before the draw, Ghana were always likely to face tough European opposition.

England enter the competition as one of the title contenders, while Croatia’s recent record includes a World Cup final in 2018 and a semi-final in 2022.

Panama complete the group as the CONCACAF representative, bringing a spirited and physical style.

Gyan, who featured at three World Cups between 2006 and 2014, remains Ghana’s all-time leading scorer with 51 goals.

His six goals on the world stage make him Africa’s highest scorer in the history of the tournament.