Brother's memory inspires Williams for World Cup opener
Ghana international Inaki Williams spoke to BBC Africa about the memory of his late older brother as he prepares to face South Africa in the World Cup 2026 opener. Williams said representing Ghana alongside his brother Nico has been 'deeply meaningful' for the family. Ghana was drawn alongside Mexico, South Africa and Ecuador in the group stage.
Ghana national team attacker Inaki Williams told a BBC Africa Accra correspondent that the memory of his older brother, who died at a young age, motivates him. The Williams brothers chose to represent Ghana over Spain due to their family's Ghanaian roots. Inaki said his brother Nico also wearing the shirt was a meaningful completion for the family.
The Ghana Football Federation president said the Williams brothers' inclusion was a milestone for the country's football. According to head coach Otto Addo, Ghana will focus on defensive organisation and quick transitions in the opener. Ghanaian fans will have a strong presence at the stadium as Mexico hosts the tournament opening.
The darker periods were hard for the family, but football became the brothers' channel of communication. Inaki stressed that he has played more than 350 matches in the Athletic Club Bilbao shirt during his professional career and that Nico's star is also rising. Williams said the opening match was a 'historic moment' for Ghana's fans.
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