World Cup 2026: '33 Million Lions' Ready to Face the 'Three Lions'

According to a Vietnam News Agency correspondent in the US, the highly anticipated clash between Ghana and England will take place at 4:00 PM local time on June 23 (3:00 AM on June 24, Vietnam time) at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, carrying significant implications for the race to qualify for the knockout stage.

After both sides secured victories in their opening matches, the team that earns all three points in this encounter will officially book a spot in the next round.

Speaking to the media, Coach Carlos Queiroz affirmed that although England wear the “Three Lions” emblem on their chests, the “Black Stars” carry the strength and will of 33 million Ghanaians. The Portuguese tactician stated that his players will step onto the pitch with excitement rather than fear, because facing football powerhouses like England, France, or Germany always provides great motivation for the squad.

In terms of form, Ghana began their World Cup campaign with a 1-0 victory over Panama thanks to a stoppage-time goal from striker Caleb Yirenkyi. However, the next challenge will be tougher as they face the team led by coach Thomas Tuchel. England just demonstrated their strength by defeating Croatia 4-2, with striker Harry Kane scoring a brace, while Jude Bellingham and Marcus Rashford each added a goal.

England currently ranks 4th in the FIFA world rankings and is considered the top favorite to win Group L, while Ghana sits at 65th. The African representative aims to replicate their achievement of reaching the knockout stage, as they did at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.

Head-to-head history records only one previous meeting between the two sides, a 1-1 friendly draw in 2011. This will be the first time the two nations face each other in an official tournament.

Coach Carlos Queiroz also holds personal memories with English football, having previously led Iran to a 2-6 loss against England at the 2022 World Cup. However, he believes those memories no longer carry much significance. According to the strategist, in football, four years can bring about major changes, and past results cannot determine the upcoming match.

Queiroz emphasized his motto: “We never lose; we either win or learn lessons.” He stated that Ghana's key is unity and the determination to fight with full effort throughout the 90 minutes, so they can leave the pitch with their heads held high.