Ghana national football team head coach Carlos Queiroz has responded to criticism of his team's playing style, emphasizing that his approach has contributed to his 47-year coaching career. At a press conference on September 21, Queiroz stated that coaches are judged on results, not their style of play. He cited his experience and success as evidence that his approach is effective. Queiroz was reappointed by the Ghana Football Association earlier this month.
Queiroz's comments come amid criticism from some sections of the Ghanaian football community, who argue that the Black Stars' defensive approach is not attractive. Former Ghana international Nii Odartey Lamptey recently called for a more attacking and possession-oriented style. However, Queiroz maintains that his priority is winning matches, not playing aesthetically pleasing football. He pointed out that coaches are typically judged on their ability to deliver results.
The Portuguese coach rejected the suggestion that his approach is solely centered on defending when the team does not have possession. Queiroz explained that his team's job is to fight for the ball when they don't have it, which some critics call defense. He emphasized that his approach is about winning the ball back quickly, not just defending. This approach has been a hallmark of his coaching style throughout his career.
Queiroz's reappointment by the Ghana Football Association was based on his experience, technical expertise, and familiarity with the team. His immediate focus is on Ghana's 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign. The Black Stars will face Côte d'Ivoire, The Gambia, and Morocco in upcoming matches. Queiroz has named a 24-man squad for these matches, including returning players Mohammed Kudus and Alexander Djiku.
Mohammed Kudus returns to the team after missing the 2026 World Cup due to injury, while Alexander Djiku also makes a comeback. Jan Gyamerah and Ronald Donkor have received their first senior call-ups. The team's upcoming matches will provide an opportunity for Queiroz to test his approach against different opponents. The Black Stars will travel to Bouaké to face Côte d'Ivoire on September 24.
The debate over Queiroz's style has sparked discussion among Ghanaian football fans and former internationals. Some critics argue that the team's defensive approach is not suitable for Ghanaian football. However, Queiroz remains committed to his philosophy, emphasizing that results will ultimately determine the success of his team. He pointed out that his approach has been successful in the past.
The Black Stars will begin their 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign against Côte d'Ivoire on September 24. Queiroz's team will then face The Gambia at the Accra Sports Stadium on September 29, before taking on Morocco in an international friendly on October 4. The team's performance in these matches will provide a test of Queiroz's approach and his ability to deliver results.
Key points
- Carlos Queiroz has defended his coaching style, emphasizing that results determine a coach's success, not aesthetics.
- The Ghana coach has been criticized for his team's defensive approach, with some calling for a more attacking style.
- Queiroz's team will face Côte d'Ivoire, The Gambia, and Morocco in upcoming matches, providing a test of his approach.
