By Kwame Bediako
Carlos Queiroz has unveiled an ambitious long‑term project for the Black Stars, declaring his mission to turn Ghana into “a country of champions” as the countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup begins. The 73‑year‑old Portuguese coach, officially unveiled in Accra, said his role is not just about winning matches, but about reshaping the culture, discipline, and identity of the national team.
Vision and cultural shift
Queiroz emphasised that his appointment is “a mission, not just a contract,” and described a clear ambition: “Ghana will not only be a country of football, but a country of champions.” His focus will be on building a mentally tough, cohesive squad that can withstand the pressure of the global stage. The former Real Madrid, Manchester United, Portugal, and Iran coach wants a shift from short‑term results to a sustainable, professional football environment within the Black Stars setup.
World Cup‑ready pedigree
The GFA’s choice of Queiroz is grounded in his rich World Cup experience. He led South Africa to qualification for the 2002 tournament, guided Portugal to the Round of 16 in 2010, and managed Iran at both the 2014 and 2018 World Cups. His work with Egypt, Japan, Qatar, and Oman adds further weight to his reputation for stabilising and raising standards in national‑team football.
Plans for the 2026 World Cup
Ghana’s 2026 World Cup campaign will open against Panama in Toronto on June 17, before bruising clashes with England and Croatia in Group L. Queiroz is expected to use the coming weeks to gel the squad, instil tactical discipline, and build resilience under pressure. His message to the nation is clear: Ghana is not just joining the World Cup party, but aiming to leave as genuine contenders.
