The Ghana Football Association (GFA) is evaluating alternative arrangements for the Black Stars should their planned friendly against Mexico be cancelled due to a surge of cartel-related violence in the North American country.

With preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup ramping up, Otto Addo’s team was expected to travel to North America to face 'El Tricolour'. However, the fixture is now clouded in uncertainty after a bloody military operation near Guadalajara resulted in at least 74 fatalities.

The unrest, triggered by the killing of a prominent drug cartel leader, has raised considerable safety concerns for international teams intending to visit the region.

In a statement on The Arena on Woezor TV, GFA Senior Communications Manager Sheikh Tophic Abdul-Kadir Sienu confirmed that while the match against Mexico remains the primary objective, the association is unwilling to take any risks.

"We have planned to play against Mexico, but certainly, we have options," Sienu remarked. "In case the Mexico game does not happen, other teams will be considered, and it is all in preparation towards the World Cup."

Sienu also discussed the logistical complexities faced by the GFA, noting that "awkward" budget discussions are ongoing as the association awaits official approval on various scenarios.

The potential cancellation comes at a crucial time for Ghana. With the 2026 tournament, jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, on the horizon, the GFA is eager to test the squad against elite opposition in North American conditions.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding the trip to Mexico, the Black Stars’ immediate schedule remains busy. The team is still expected to travel to Europe next month for high-profile friendlies against Austria and Germany.

These matches are crucial to Ghana's preparations for the expanded 48-team tournament, which kicks off on June 11.