Former Asante Kotoko goalkeeper Ibrahim Danlad has thrown his full support behind Benjamin Asare ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, stressing that his role is not to offer advice but to pray for his colleague’s success.
With the Ghana national football team stepping up preparations for the global showpiece to be hosted in the United States, Canada and Mexico, discussions continue over who will earn the starting role in goal for the four-time African champions.
Danlad, however, believes respect and unity must take precedence.
“Benjamin Asare is my senior, so it wouldn’t be right for me to advise him. I can only seek God’s luck, favour and strength for him, and pray that he is protected from any disgrace or injuries,” he told 3Sports.
The former Black Stars shot-stopper spoke warmly about Asare’s professionalism and composure, praising the qualities that have won him admiration within Ghana’s football circles.
“I truly admire his conduct both on and off the pitch, and I pray that he performs exceptionally well for Ghana at the tournament,” Danlad added.
Ghana have been drawn in Group L, where they will face Panama, England and Croatia. The Black Stars open their campaign against Panama on June 17, before taking on England on June 23 and rounding off the group phase against Croatia on June 27.
As part of their build-up, the team is scheduled to regroup in March for international friendlies against Austria and Germany, followed by a final preparatory match against Mexico in May. They will be based at Bryant University in the United States throughout the tournament.
Having endured early exits in their last two World Cup appearances, the Black Stars will be determined to make a strong statement this time around. For Danlad, the message is simple: unity, belief and unwavering support for whoever earns the gloves on football’s grandest stage.