Ghana's Black Stars head coach, Carlos Queiroz, has hit back at critics of his team's style of play at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Despite managing only one win in four matches, Queiroz remains committed to his approach, developed over nearly five decades in coaching. He stressed that success in football is measured by results, not aesthetics. Queiroz's comments come as Ghana prepares for their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.
The 73-year-old Portuguese coach made these remarks during a media conference in Accra on Monday. He emphasized that coaches are judged by results, not style, and that he has no plans to change his approach. "The only style I know is winning," Queiroz stated. He questioned whether any coach had lost their job due to style, underscoring his focus on achieving results.
Queiroz defended his team's strategy at the World Cup, rejecting claims that Ghana deliberately adopted a defensive style. He argued that when his team doesn't have possession, their job is to fight until they regain the ball. While some may call this defense, Queiroz disagrees with the label. His comments suggest that he will maintain his current approach.
The former Egypt coach acknowledged that differing opinions are a natural part of the game. However, he urged Ghanaians to unite behind the national team. "Football is a game of opinions," Queiroz said. He emphasized that while everyone may not share the same views, unity is crucial when it comes to supporting the Black Stars.
Ghana will take on Côte d'Ivoire at the Stade de la Paix in Bouaké on 24 September, marking the beginning of their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign. The Black Stars will then host The Gambia at the Accra Sports Stadium three days later. These matches will be Queiroz's first competitive engagements since the World Cup.
The Black Stars will conclude the international window with a friendly against Morocco at the Grand Stade de Tanger on 4 October. This match will provide Queiroz with an opportunity to continue preparations for the AFCON qualifying campaign. The team's performance in these upcoming matches will be closely watched by fans and critics alike.
As Queiroz prepares his team for the challenges ahead, his commitment to his style of play remains unwavering. With over 47 years of coaching experience, he is confident in his approach and focused on achieving success with the Black Stars. The team's upcoming matches will provide a test of Queiroz's strategy and the team's ability to execute it effectively.
Key points
- Carlos Queiroz has no plans to change his style of play despite criticism of Ghana's performance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
- The Black Stars will begin their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign against Côte d'Ivoire on 24 September.
- Queiroz emphasized that coaches are judged by results, not style, and that he will focus on achieving success with the Black Stars.
