Jordan Ayew: World Cup Qualification Is Our Chance to Redeem Ourselves After AFCON Heartbreak

Ghana Captain Jordan Ayew has expressed his delight after helping the Black Stars secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, admitting that the achievement feels like redemption following the team’s recent disappointments.

Speaking after Ghana sealed their place at the global showpiece, the experienced Crystal Palace attacker reflected on the team’s journey and his personal motivation heading into the qualifiers.

“I wasn’t particularly pleased with our performance at the 2022 World Cup, so I was determined to experience the tournament once again,” Ayew said. “Failing to qualify for the AFCON was a disaster and a huge disappointment for everyone — players, coaches, and supporters alike. This qualification was our opportunity to redeem ourselves and make amends for that setback.”

Ayew, who has been one of Ghana’s most consistent performers in recent years, played a key role in the qualification campaign under head coach Otto Addo, contributing crucial goals and leadership both on and off the pitch.

He emphasised that the team’s focus now is on proper preparation to ensure Ghana performs far better in the United States, Canada, and Mexico than in Qatar 2022, where the Black Stars exited at the group stage.

“We’ve learned from our past mistakes,” he added. “The next step is to prepare well, stay united as a team, and represent Ghana with pride on the world stage.”

The Black Stars’ qualification marks their fifth appearance at the World Cup finals, and Ayew—one of the few players with experience from multiple tournaments—hopes to inspire the next generation of Ghanaian footballers to believe in themselves and the national team’s potential.