Former Managing News Editor of the Insight Newspaper, Kwesi Pratt Jnr, has praised the Black Stars for what he described as a remarkable performance in their goalless draw with England at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Speaking on Metro TV’s Good Morning Ghana with host Moro Awudu, the veteran journalist said the team had exceeded most technical and realistic expectations.
“The Black Stars’ performance against England was remarkable and exceeded most technical and realistic expectations,” he said.
Pratt Jnr said he watched the match with a crowd at a local spot near his home and admitted that expectations had been low because of Ghana’s recent struggles and the limited time the coach had spent with the team before the tournament.
“In the opening minutes, I was quite nervous,” he said.
He observed that Ghana adopted a cautious, defensive approach for much of the game, with play largely taking place in the Black Stars’ half.
“A single mistake could easily have led to a goal for England,” he noted. “Ghana did not attack frequently and appeared focused on maintaining a disciplined defensive shape.”
According to him, the strategy ultimately paid off.
“The coach seemed determined to frustrate and wear down the English side, and by the final whistle the England players appeared visibly frustrated,” he said.
Kwesi Pratt Jnr described the 0-0 draw as a positive result that had placed Ghana in a strong position to qualify for the next stage of the competition.
He added that he had not shared the optimism of some supporters who predicted a victory for Ghana.
“My assessment was based on the team’s recent performances and the limited preparation time available to the coach,” he explained.
The veteran journalist also reflected on the celebrations that followed the match, saying the reaction across the country highlighted the emotional significance of the result.
“Although Ghana had only secured a draw, the level of jubilation was extraordinary,” he said.
He noted that some motorbike riders ignored traffic regulations while fans poured onto the streets in celebration, adding that it was difficult to imagine how people would have reacted had Ghana won the game.
Beyond the result itself, Pratt Jnr said the performance appeared to have rekindled a sense of national pride and unity.
“Football has a unique ability to bring people together, and this performance gave many Ghanaians something to celebrate and believe in,” he said.
He concluded by stressing that results remain the ultimate measure in football.
“Teams can dominate possession and create chances, but goals and outcomes are what matter most. On that measure, the Black Stars delivered an excellent performance.”
