Teenagers in Tamale say they are looking ahead to the 2026 FIFA World Cup with excitement, with most backing Portugal and a smaller number tipping France to win the tournament.

Speaking during a discussion with some football lovers ahead of the World Cup 2026 at the Lamashegu park in the northern region city of Tamale, four of the five teenagers said they expected Portugal to go all the way, largely because they believe the competition could offer Cristiano Ronaldo one final chance to lift football’s biggest prize.

For the group, Portugal’s appeal is not only about Ronaldo, but also about a team they see as technically strong and capable of overcoming past disappointments. They pointed to players such as Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, Rafael Leão and João Félix as key figures in a side they believe has enough quality to win the title.

One teenager, however, chose France, saying the defending World Cup finalists have greater depth and balance across the pitch. He cited players including Kylian Mbappé, Aurélien Tchouaméni, Eduardo Camavinga, Ousmane Dembélé and Randal Kolo Muani as proof of France’s strength.

The teenagers said they expect the World Cup to deliver drama, late goals, penalty shootouts and emotional moments. They also want the tournament to be widely accessible so they can follow matches beyond the final stages.

Some said they hope to see an African team make a deep run, with Morocco’s performance in 2022 still fresh in their minds. The discussions reflected how the tournament continues to capture the imagination of young football fans in Ghana, who see it as more than just a sporting event.

By Sule Kawsada