Ghana's amputee football team, the Black Challenge, has named a 20-man provisional squad ahead of the 2026 World Amputee Football Federation (WAFF) World Cup in Mexico. The team, which has won several continental titles, aims to make a strong impression on the world stage. The squad includes players from Ghanaian clubs such as Asanteman AFC, Gye Nyame AFC, and Our Hope AFC, as well as those based in Türkiye. The team is set to compete in the tournament from 13 to 22 November 2026 in San Juan de los Lagos, Mexico.
The provisional squad consists of three goalkeepers and 17 outfield players, selected by the head coach of the Black Challenge. The goalkeepers are Razak Seidu of Asanteman AFC, Atsu Abor of Global AFC, and Richmond Fosu of Talent Hour Discovery. The outfield players bring a mix of local and international experience, with two players, Joseph Amoh and Collins Gyamfi, listed as local selections whose clubs were not confirmed. The squad is expected to be trimmed to a final World Cup roster, but no date has been specified.
The Black Challenge has built a consistent record in international football, despite operating with limited public attention. The team won its first African title in Tanzania in 2021, beating Liberia 3-2 in the final. Two years later, they took gold at the inaugural African Para Games staged in Accra, defeating Morocco 2-1 on home soil. This momentum carried into a title defence in Cairo, where Ghana again beat Morocco 2-1 to retain their African crown and secure qualification for the Mexico World Cup.
Amputee football is played by athletes who have lost a limb, typically using crutches, with outfield players missing a leg and goalkeepers missing an arm. The Black Challenge's success is a testament to the team's dedication and skill. The Ghana Paralympic Committee has called on Ghanaians, corporate sponsors, and the wider sporting community to support the team as preparations continue. Funding and public backing may shape how well-prepared the squad arrives in Mexico.
The 2026 WAFF World Cup will bring together 24 national teams from around the globe, providing a platform for the Black Challenge to showcase their talents. The team's participation in the tournament is a significant milestone, marking a new chapter in Ghana's amputee football history. With a strong squad and adequate preparation, the Black Challenge may be able to make a lasting impression on the world stage.
The Black Challenge's journey to the 2026 WAFF World Cup is a remarkable story of perseverance and achievement. Despite being a relatively unknown team, the Black Challenge has consistently performed well in continental competitions. The team's success serves as an inspiration to other Ghanaian teams and highlights the importance of supporting amputee football.
As the Black Challenge prepares for the 2026 WAFF World Cup, the team faces a challenging task ahead. With a tough competition and limited resources, the team's performance will depend on various factors, including funding, preparation, and team dynamics. Nevertheless, the Black Challenge is determined to make a strong impression and bring glory to Ghana.
Key points
- The Black Challenge has named a 20-man provisional squad for the 2026 WAFF World Cup in Mexico.
- The team aims to translate their continental dominance into a successful World Cup campaign.
- The Ghana Paralympic Committee has called on Ghanaians and corporate sponsors to support the team as preparations continue.
