Ghana’s senior national football team, the Black Stars, have thrown down the gauntlet ahead of their highly anticipated 2026 FIFA World Cup clash against England, boldly declaring their intention to “tame the Three Lions and use their meat for pepper soup.”
The light-hearted but confident remark reflects the growing belief within the Ghana camp following their dramatic opening victory over Panama in Group L.
The four-time African champions secured a crucial 1-0 win thanks to a stoppage-time strike from Caleb Yirenkyi, who scored in the 95th minute to deny Panama their first-ever World Cup point.
The decisive moment came after Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo, later named Man of the Match, launched one final attack. Semenyo found Brandon Thomas-Asante on the left flank, and the Coventry City striker delivered a precise cross into the box for Yirenkyi to tap home at the back post, sending Ghanaian supporters into wild celebrations.
Semenyo was influential throughout the encounter, frequently drifting from the left wing into central positions as Ghana searched for a breakthrough.
Panama, however, proved difficult opponents, regularly testing goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi while defending resolutely for much of the contest.
The victory leaves Ghana second in Group L, behind England on goal difference after the Three Lions recorded an entertaining 4-2 win over Croatia in their opening fixture.
With confidence soaring, the Black Stars are now preparing for a mouth-watering showdown against England as they seek to disrupt the momentum of one of the tournament favourites.
The two sides will meet at Boston Stadium on Tuesday, June 23, with kick-off scheduled for 21:00 (UK time).
Ghana will be hoping to recreate the fighting spirit that has defined their World Cup history and prove that the Black Stars remain a force to be reckoned with on football’s biggest stage.
For Ghanaian fans, the message is simple: the pepper soup pot is ready.
