Ghana Head Coach Carlos Queiroz has identified the start of the Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign as the absolute priority for the Black Stars. He frames the team's new cycle within a broader and more ambitious project: building a team capable of honouring the country at the 2030 World Cup. Queiroz stresses the need to work and compete with absolute determination and humility.
Speaking to the official website of the Ghana Football Association, Queiroz discussed the squad selection for the opening AFCON qualifiers and the beginning of a new chapter for the Black Stars. He emphasized that the priority is AFCON qualification, with their eyes set on the 2030 World Cup. The coach noted that Ghana has an immediate objective that demands full concentration, but also a greater destination ahead.
Queiroz cautioned against considering Ghana a contender for the AFCON title, citing the need for humility and hard work. He stated that the team must have ambition but also recognize their recent history and the fact that they have not yet qualified. The coach emphasized that Ghana must work, grow, compete, and earn their destiny.
The coach also assessed Ghana's current standing in relation to Africa's leading national teams. He acknowledged the level of competition, noting that top African teams have been built over time with players competing regularly at the highest level in Europe. Queiroz recognized this as the competitive reality Ghana must pursue.
Queiroz highlighted the importance of the World Cup experience for the team's future. He noted that the World Cup was an experience that gave them a deep understanding of the players, their qualities, and their character. The coach expressed pride in being part of a fantastic group and national-team culture.
The coach outlined the main criteria for selecting the squad, emphasizing that players should be in competitive action, physically prepared, and fully ready to play for the national team. He noted that the technical staff carried out in-depth monitoring of the players, taking into account limitations or periods of inactivity affecting some players.
Queiroz shared a message for the team, emphasizing that every squad selection, training session, and match must contribute to building a better team. He stressed the need for humility and hard work, noting that Ghana must work even harder and better to compete with the best teams.
Key points
- Carlos Queiroz prioritizes AFCON qualification and 2030 World Cup ambitions for Ghana's Black Stars.
- Queiroz emphasizes the need for humility and hard work in building a competitive team.
- The coach highlights the importance of the World Cup experience in understanding the players and building a strong team culture.
