Ghana

Ghana, the Black Stars, are one of Africa's most beloved and successful footballing nations, famed for their flair, athleticism, and the deafening passion of their support. A four-time African champion, Ghana have repeatedly carried the hopes of an entire continent at the World Cup.

Ghana's defining World Cup moment came in 2010, when they reached the quarterfinals — equaling the best-ever finish by an African side at the time — only for Luis Suárez's deliberate handball on the line and Asamoah Gyan's missed penalty in the dying seconds to deny them a historic semifinal place against Uruguay. They also reached the round of 16 on their 2006 debut. Ghana's emotional World Cup journey, full of near-misses and heartbreak, has made them a sentimental favorite worldwide.