Pre-matchWednesday, June 17

Ghana heavy favourites to launch campaign as pool backs Black Stars overwhelmingly

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Ghana open Group L as clear betting favourites against Panama, with 55 of 74 pool members backing the Black Stars in a match that could set the tone for both sides' knockout ambitions.

The bookies and the pool are in lockstep: Ghana are odds-on favourites and 74% of you backed them, with 1-0 the most popular scoreline (21 picks) — only 6 brave souls went for the Panama upset.

What's at stake

Group L opens wide with all four teams level on zero points. Ghana and Panama meet knowing England and Croatia loom on the horizon, making this a must-not-lose opener for both. Three points here would put either side in prime position before facing the group heavyweights, while defeat leaves a mountain to climb. The Black Stars will view this as their best chance for maximum points in the group.

Team news & expected lineups

Ghana are expected to field a strong XI built around Thomas Partey in midfield and Mohammed Kudus as the creative spark. The Black Stars should deploy a 4-2-3-1 with Inaki Williams leading the line and Andre Ayew providing veteran experience. Panama will likely counter with a compact 5-4-1, relying on Ismael Díaz up front and banking on defensive organization to frustrate Ghana's attacking talent. Neither side has reported major injury concerns heading into the opener.

The key matchup

Mohammed Kudus versus Panama's midfield block is the tactical flashpoint. The Ajax playmaker is Ghana's primary chance creator and his ability to find space between the lines will dictate whether the Black Stars can break down what promises to be a low defensive block. Panama's success hinges on staying compact and hitting on the counter through Díaz, but if Kudus finds rhythm in the pockets, Ghana's quality should tell.

What the odds say

Ghana are clear betting favourites across the market, reflecting both their superior talent and Panama's underdog status. The betting lines suggest a comfortable home win is the likeliest outcome, aligning with the pool's strong conviction — three-quarters of picks backed the Black Stars, with tight 1-0 and 2-1 wins the preferred scorelines. Only 6 contrarians see Panama pulling off the upset, while 13 hedged with the draw.

▸Sources (28)