Pre-World Cup 2026 friendly: Wales-Ghana, likely lineups
This evening at 8:45 p.m., Cardiff City Stadium opens for a fascinating international friendly between Wales and Ghana, an unprecedented test on Welsh soil that pits two national teams with deeply opposing motivations against each other. For the hosts, it is a restarting point to plan for the future after the bitter disappointment of the World Cup playoffs in March, when the dream faded on penalty kicks against Bosnia and Herzegovina. On the other hand, the Ghana of new coach Carlos Queiroz is experiencing the appointment as the last and crucial test before flying to North America for the 2026 World Cup, where the “Black Stars” will be expected to face an iron group with England, Croatia and Panama. The Africans will try to take advantage of their best players in attack to make up for a defense that has conceded goals for five consecutive matches, while Wales will try to leverage the enthusiasm of its public to give itself a performance of pride and test new tactical solutions.
Bellamy lays out a very solid defensive team. In front of Ward, the defensive line will rely on the experience of Mepham and Rodon in the center, with Roberts and Davies ready to push on the outside lanes. The midfield dam will be formed by Ampadu and Allen, while in the three-quarter the flair and quickness of Johnson, Brooks and James will be tasked with triggering the physicality of the lone forward Moore.
Carlos responds instead with a more dynamic team. Ati-Zigi will defend the posts, protected by central pair Djiku-Salisu and full-backs Senaya and Mensah. In the control booth, Partey’s experience will be crucial, supported by Owusu’s dynamism and Kudus’ quality at the halfback position. The offensive trident will be formed by outfielders Semenyo and Sulemana acting on either side of central Jordan Ayew.
Probable formations
Wales (4-2-3-1): Ward; Roberts, Mepham, Rodon, Davies; Ampadu, Allen; Johnson, Brooks, James; Moore. Coach Craig Bellamy.
Ghana (4-3-3): Ati-Zigi; Senaya, Djiku, Salisu, Mensah; Partey, Owusu, Kudus; Semenyo, J. Ayew, K. Sulemana. All. Carlos Queiroz.
