Tag Archives: 2026 World Cup

“I Am Ready to Convince My Sons to Play for Ghana” – Former Black Stars Coach CK Akonnor Hints


CK Akonnor with his son: The former Black Stars coach is ready to bring his European-based sons home to represent Ghana. 

Akonnor’s two sons, Charles Jesaja Herrmann (25) and Charles Kwablan Herrmann (20), were both born and raised in Germany. Having represented German youth teams at various levels, including the U17 and U20 squads, the duo remains highly sought-after talents. The younger son, Charles Kwablan Herrmann, notably played a pivotal role in Germany’s 2023 FIFA U-17 World Cup triumph.

The Challenge of Dual Nationality

Speaking in a recent interview with Graphic Sports, Akonnor acknowledged the difficulty of the task ahead. “It’s difficult to convince them to come to Ghana because they grew up in Germany,” Akonnor admitted. “But of course, if the need be or if the opportunity arises, we will be able to make that decision.”

“As a father who represented Ghana at the highest level, I would not hesitate to guide them toward the Black Stars jersey if the timing is right.”

Currently, the elder son, Jesaja Herrmann, is plying his trade with German side FC Bocholt, while Charles Kwablan Herrmann has recently secured a high-profile move to Belgian Pro League outfit Cercle Brugge. The move to Belgium is seen as a major stepping stone that could bring the young winger closer to a senior international call-up.


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Can the Black Stars Win the World Cup and Earn Over $50 Million for Ghana?

Ghana’s senior national team, the Black Stars, have once again ignited national debate and hope following their qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Beyond pride and global recognition, many Ghanaians are asking a crucial question: Can the Black Stars realistically win the World Cup and bring home over $50 million for the nation?

Can the Black Stars Win the World Cup and Earn Over $50 Million for Ghana? 5

FIFA has announced a historic increase in prize money for the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The tournament will feature 48 teams, making it the biggest World Cup in history. Under the new structure, the total prize pool stands at $727 million, with $655 million distributed based on performance.

By qualifying alone, Ghana is guaranteed a minimum of $10.5 million, regardless of results at the tournament. This figure covers participation and preparation costs and already represents a major financial boost for Ghana football.

The ultimate prize, however, lies at the top. The World Cup winners will receive approximately $50 million, while the runners-up will earn around $33 million. Teams that reach the semi-finals and quarter-finals also stand to gain tens of millions of dollars in cumulative earnings.

For Ghana, winning the World Cup would be unprecedented. The Black Stars’ best performance remains the 2010 quarter-final run in South Africa, where they narrowly missed out on a historic semi-final appearance. While the task ahead is enormous — with global powerhouses like Brazil, Argentina, France, and England expected to compete — football history has repeatedly shown that surprises are possible.

Beyond prize money, a deep World Cup run would attract sponsorships, boost tourism, elevate Ghana’s global image, and inspire grassroots football development across the country. Investment in youth systems, coaching, and infrastructure could receive a major lift from such earnings.

While winning the World Cup remains a difficult dream, earning over $50 million through a combination of prize money, commercial opportunities, and long-term benefits is not impossible if the Black Stars make a remarkable run. For now, qualification alone is already a financial and sporting victory — but the dream continues.

Ghana Set to Earn at Least $10.5 Million After 2026 World Cup Qualification

Ghana’s Black Stars stand to benefit financially from their successful qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the nation guaranteed a minimum payout of at least $10.5 million from FIFA’s expanded prize-money structure. 

The payout comes as part of a record-breaking $727 million prize pool approved by the FIFA Council for the upcoming tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.  Under the new financial model, every nation that qualifies receives $1.5 million for preparation costs, plus a base participation amount — creating a financial floor of $10.5 million regardless of results on the pitch. 

Ghana Set to Earn at Least $10.5 Million After 2026 World Cup Qualification 8

For Ghana, this guaranteed financial windfall represents a significant economic boost beyond the national pride of returning to the world’s biggest sporting stage. Football officials have said the funds will help support team logistics, preparations and broader development objectives as the Black Stars gear up for the global tournament. 

The expanded tournament format and increased prize money mark a major shift in FIFA’s approach to revenue distribution, ensuring that all qualified nations benefit financially from participation.