Josiah
Black Stars head coach Carlos Queiroz has expressed confidence in Ghana’s readiness ahead of its opening match against Panama at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting that the team has done everything possible to prepare for the crucial encounter.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference at BMO Field on Tuesday, Queiroz said the Black Stars had adhered closely to their preparation plans during their training camp in the United States. According to him, while no preparation process can ever be perfect, the team made the most of every opportunity available, including training sessions, friendly matches and tactical meetings.
The Ghana coach explained that the technical team had worked tirelessly to ensure that the players were physically, mentally and tactically prepared for the tournament opener. He noted that all efforts had been directed toward putting the team in the best possible position to compete successfully when they take to the field against Panama.
Queiroz also addressed questions regarding midfielder Thomas Partey and whether ongoing issues surrounding the player could affect the squad. The coach maintained that the team’s plans remained unchanged and that all 36 players currently in camp were still being considered as part of the squad. He indicated that a final decision on the starting lineup would be made closer to kickoff and declined to comment further on matters outside his direct responsibility.
Reflecting on the significance of the opening match, Queiroz dismissed suggestions that the Panama game should be viewed differently from any other fixture. He stressed that every game in football is a must-win encounter because success in the sport is measured by results rather than intentions. Drawing from decades of coaching experience, he stated that he had never approached any match without the objective of winning and believes that victory remains the ultimate measure of a team’s performance.
The veteran coach acknowledged that Panama would enter the match with similar ambitions and expectations, making the contest a highly competitive one. However, he expressed confidence in his players’ ability to rise to the challenge and secure a positive result. He further noted that while some observers had questioned the number of friendly matches Ghana played before the tournament, there is no guaranteed formula for success in football. According to him, teams can compensate for fewer matches through more intensive training sessions, and the outcome of any game ultimately depends on the players’ commitment and execution on the day.
Queiroz emphasized that football remains unpredictable regardless of preparation methods. While coaches can provide guidance and structure, he believes that once the match begins, responsibility shifts largely to the players. For that reason, he said he has complete trust in his squad and is confident they are ready to compete at the highest level.
Beyond the team’s preparations, the coach also shared his views on broader issues affecting the game, including discussions around cooling breaks and other tournament regulations. While accepting the decisions that have already been made, he called for greater transparency and accountability from football’s governing bodies. He suggested that after the tournament, FIFA and other stakeholders should conduct comprehensive reviews to determine whether certain decisions were made primarily in the interest of player welfare or influenced by commercial considerations. Such evaluations, he argued, would help improve future decision-making and strengthen the integrity of the sport.
As Ghana prepares to begin its World Cup campaign, Queiroz also appealed to supporters to play their part by creating a strong atmosphere inside the stadium. He described fans as the team’s “twelfth player” and urged Ghanaian supporters to provide unwavering encouragement throughout the match. According to him, the energy and passion of the fans can serve as a vital source of motivation for the players as they seek to overcome their opponents.
With preparations complete and confidence high within the camp, Queiroz believes the Black Stars are ready for the challenge ahead. As Ghana takes on Panama in its opening fixture, the coach remains focused on achieving the result that matters most—victory.
