Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz has expressed confidence in his team's available players despite several key injuries ahead of their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers. Speaking at a pre-match press conference, Queiroz acknowledged the disappointment of losing important squad members but emphasized that the current team has enough quality and potential to compete. He stressed that Ghana's focus should be on the players who are fit and ready to represent the country.
Queiroz highlighted that while injuries are unfortunate, the team's attention must shift to the available players. He believes the current squad possesses the necessary talent, enthusiasm, and determination to take on the responsibility. The Portuguese coach made it clear that the players called into the squad should not feel like second choices due to the absence of established names. Instead, he has placed his confidence in the group preparing for the qualifiers.
Ghana's preparations have been disrupted by several withdrawals, including Mohammed Kudus, Baba Rahman, Alidu Seidu, Jordan Ayew, Antoine Semenyo, Prince Adu Kwabena, and Nathaniel Adjei. The absence of these players presents a significant challenge for Queiroz, particularly as Ghana looks to start their qualifying campaign on a positive note. However, Queiroz's comments suggest he is determined to look beyond the injury list and focus on the fit and available players.
The Black Stars will face Ivory Coast in Bouaké on Thursday, followed by a match against The Gambia at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday. These fixtures will test the depth and character within Queiroz's squad. Ghana missed out on the last AFCON tournament for the first time in 20 years, increasing expectations surrounding the Black Stars as they begin another qualifying journey.
With a lengthy injury list creating uncertainty, Ghana will be hoping the players given an opportunity can rise to the occasion. Queiroz emphasized that the players available for selection are the ones Ghana must trust. Rather than dwelling on those who are missing, the Black Stars must focus on what they can achieve with the current squad.
A strong opening against Ivory Coast would provide an early boost before the team returns home to face The Gambia. Ghana will aim to collect maximum points from their opening matches and avoid putting themselves under additional pressure as the qualifying campaign progresses. The injuries present an unwanted challenge, and Queiroz will now look to emerging talents and available senior players to carry the responsibility.
Queiroz's confidence in the squad will be tested on the pitch as Ghana begins to secure their return to the AFCON. The team's performance in the upcoming matches will demonstrate whether the available players can meet the coach's expectations. With the right mindset and teamwork, Ghana can overcome the challenges posed by the injuries and make a strong statement in the qualifiers.
Key points
- Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz trusts available players for AFCON qualifiers
- Several key players, including Mohammed Kudus and Jordan Ayew, are unavailable due to injuries
- Ghana faces Ivory Coast and The Gambia in their upcoming AFCON qualifiers
