Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz has defended his approach to football, stating that winning defines his style as the Black Stars prepare for the 2027 AFCON qualifiers. He faced criticism for his perceived defensive approach during Ghana's 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign. Queiroz insists that results, rather than aesthetics, ultimately define a coach's style. His comments come ahead of Ghana's first competitive assignments since the 2026 World Cup.
Queiroz has rejected the suggestion that his teams should be defined by a particular tactical style, arguing that winning is the central objective of football. He stated, "My style of football is the winning style. I never saw coaches lose their job because of style. They lose their job because they don't win." This approach will likely guide his strategy in the upcoming 2027 AFCON qualifiers.
The Portuguese coach further stressed that success on the pitch determines how a team's style is viewed. "Winning makes the style. Winning makes the fashion. That's the law of the game." Queiroz's record with the Black Stars includes one win, two draws, and two defeats in five matches during the 2026 World Cup period. Ghana progressed from their World Cup group but were eliminated by Colombia in the Round of 32.
Queiroz was subsequently brought back to lead the team into the next phase, with qualification for the 2027 AFCON now one of his immediate objectives. His first major test in his latest spell comes against Côte d'Ivoire in Bouaké on Thursday, September 24, in Ghana's opening 2027 AFCON qualifier. The Black Stars will then face The Gambia on September 29.
The team will also take on Morocco in an international friendly on October 4. With Ghana having missed the previous Africa Cup of Nations tournament, Queiroz will be looking to make a strong start to the qualification campaign. Producing results and putting Ghana on course for a return to the continental competition are his immediate objectives.
Queiroz's comments reflect his focus on achieving success with the Black Stars. His approach will be closely watched as Ghana competes in the 2027 AFCON qualifiers. The team's performance will be crucial in determining their chances of qualifying for the tournament.
The Black Stars' captain, Ayew, has received backing from Queiroz amid calls for him to retire. The team's preparations for the upcoming matches are ongoing, with the coach working to finalize his squad. The 2027 AFCON qualifiers will be a significant test of Queiroz's coaching philosophy and the team's abilities.
Key points
- Carlos Queiroz emphasizes winning as his style of football.
- The coach has a record of one win, two draws, and two defeats in five matches with the Black Stars.
- Ghana's first 2027 AFCON qualifier is against Côte d'Ivoire on September 24.
