Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz has called on the Black Stars to put their opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying defeat behind them and focus on their upcoming match against The Gambia. The four-time African champions host The Gambia at the Accra Sports Stadium on September 29, seeking their first points after a 2-0 loss to Ivory Coast in Bouake. The defeat left them at the foot of Group C. Queiroz emphasized that dwelling on past results will not help his side prepare for the crucial home fixture.
Speaking ahead of the match on September 28, Queiroz stated that his team must focus on the present and future, rather than past results. "We don't win games with the past, but we also don't lose games in the past with what happened yesterday," he said. "We go for results with the ability and will to win the next game, to be well prepared and beat our opponents." Queiroz also noted that the past is important for learning and progression, but it is not a determining factor in their upcoming match.
The 73-year-old coach also addressed questions about his tenure as Ghana's head coach, stating that football ultimately judges managers by results rather than timelines. "Football has its own god. The gods of football are results," he said. "I can't answer you how many days, weeks, months or years I will be in the job. Only the gods of football can answer that." Queiroz is searching for his first competitive victory since taking over the Black Stars.
The Black Stars are hoping to return to the continental tournament after missing out on the previous edition in Morocco. Tuesday's encounter against The Gambia is an important early opportunity for Ghana to get their campaign back on track in front of home supporters. The team's defeat in Bouake increased the pressure on Ghana's bid to secure qualification for the 2027 finals.
Queiroz's side will face a crucial test against The Gambia, who will be looking to cause an upset and earn their first points in the qualifying campaign. The match is scheduled to kick off at 16:00 GMT on September 29. Ghana's coaching staff will be working to ensure that the team is well-prepared and motivated to secure a positive result.
The Black Stars have a strong record in the Africa Cup of Nations, having won the tournament four times. However, their recent form has been inconsistent, and they will be looking to turn their fortunes around under Queiroz's leadership. The team's fans will be eagerly anticipating the match, hoping that their side can secure a much-needed victory.
The upcoming match against The Gambia is a significant test for Queiroz and his team. A positive result would help to ease the pressure on the team's bid to secure qualification for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. The Black Stars will be looking to make a statement and demonstrate their capabilities against a determined Gambia side.
Key points
- Carlos Queiroz urges Black Stars to focus on The Gambia match
- Ghana seeking first points in 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign
- Match against The Gambia scheduled for September 29 at 16:00 GMT
