Ghana’s Black Challenge Names 20-Player Squad and Media Lead for 2026 Amputee Football World Cup in Mexico

The National Paralympic Committee (NPC) of Ghana has officially commenced its high-level preparations for the 2026 World Amputee Football Federation (WAFF) World Cup by naming a provisional squad and appointing a dedicated media lead. The tournament, which will feature 24 national teams, is scheduled to take place from November 13 to 22, 2026, in San Juan de los Lagos, Mexico. As the reigning continental champions, the Black Challenge—Ghana’s national amputee football team—enters the global campaign with high expectations following a string of dominant performances in African competitions over the last four years.

To manage the team’s communications and press operations, the NPC has appointed Theophilus “Theo” Sampah as the Media Officer for the Mexico 2026 campaign. Sampah, a professional from the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation who also serves as the Media and Administrative Officer for the Ghana Amputee Football Association, will be responsible for media accreditation, team press operations, and official communications before and during the tournament. His appointment is aimed at ensuring a seamless flow of information between the team and the public, as well as coordinating coverage for journalists tracking Ghana’s journey to the world stage.

On the technical side, the NPC has unveiled a provisional 20-player squad composed of three goalkeepers and 17 outfield players. The roster features a blend of domestic talent and international experience, with players selected from clubs within Ghana and those playing professionally in Türkiye. NPC President Samson Deen has already submitted the squad list to the Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, to facilitate early arrangements for travel documentation, camping logistics, and financial support. Key players mentioned in the preliminary list include goalkeepers Razak Seidu, Atsu Abor, and Richmond Fosu, who will be instrumental in the team's defensive strategy.

The Black Challenge heads to Mexico with a formidable track record, having established itself as a powerhouse in amputee football. The team secured the African title in Tanzania in 2021, won gold at the inaugural African Para Games in Accra in 2023, and successfully retained their African crown in Cairo in 2024. These consecutive successes have not only bolstered national pride but have also secured their qualification for the upcoming World Cup, where they hope to translate their continental dominance into a global title.

As the team prepares to enter national camp, the Ghana Paralympic Committee and the Ministry of Sports are calling on corporate partners and the general public to provide the necessary support and resources. The committee emphasizes that the success of athletes with disabilities is a vital component of Ghana’s broader sporting goals. With the appointment of the media lead and the selection of the provisional squad, the foundation is now set for what many hope will be a historic performance for Ghana in Mexico.