Ghana’s Minister for Sports and Recreation, Hon. Kofi Iddie Adams, has hailed Black Stars head coach Carlos Queiroz for restoring discipline, focus and unity within the national team ahead of their final Group L fixture against Croatia at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Sports Minister made the remarks after joining a high-profile delegation that visited the Black Stars at their team hotel before the squad travelled from Rhode Island to Philadelphia to continue preparations for the crucial clash.
The delegation included Ghanaian businessman Ibrahim Mahama, Ghana’s Ambassador to the United States Victor Smith and Minister for Foreign Affairs Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, who all interacted with the players and technical team in a show of support ahead of the crucial encounter.
Hon. Adams believes the impact of Queiroz has been immediate, insisting the experienced Portuguese tactician has earned the trust and admiration of the players despite only taking charge of the team a short time ago.
Players Have Embraced Queiroz’s Leadership
Speaking after the visit, the Sports Minister praised the former Portugal, Iran and Real Madrid coach for instilling discipline and creating a strong bond within the squad. “Well, I think he’s brought some discipline into the team. He’s brought some kind of focus into the team and the players kind of like love him.”
Although Queiroz is still relatively new in the role, Adams believes his wealth of experience has quickly won over the dressing room.
“He’s not been with them for a very long time but you can see that love and respect and that’s why they play to his plan, they play to his strategy because they believe that this is somebody who has seen it all and so they are able to listen to him. It gives me joy.”
Hon. Kofi Iddie Adams, Minister of Sports and Recreation
Queiroz is one of the most experienced coaches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Portuguese manager is appearing at his fifth FIFA World Cup, having previously led Portugal in South Africa in 2010 before guiding Iran at the 2014, 2018 and 2022 tournaments.
An Appointment Based on Experience and Respect
Hon. Adams disclosed that Queiroz’s reputation and ability to command respect from players were major factors behind the decision to appoint him as Black Stars head coach. “When we were making the decision to change the coach, it was one of the things that we factored in, who should take over because we needed somebody who the players will respect, the players will accept.”
He added that the authorities wanted a manager capable of communicating effectively with the players while commanding their confidence. The minister noted that “the players will give that opportunity to be able to help, speak to them and tell them, ‘Let’s do it this way,’ and they will listen.”
According to the Minister, the early signs indicate Ghana made the right decision. “I’m happy that we made the right choice and in such a short time he’s been able to impact heavily on the team.”
Carlos Queiroz has remained undefeated in his first three games in charge, recording two draws and one win. He is also the first coach to lead Ghana and managed multiple and consecutive clean sheets at the FIFA World Cup having kept none in their previous two editions.
Warm Reception Reflects Strong Bond
Hon. Adams also revealed that the atmosphere during the visit reflected the close relationship Queiroz has already built with his squad. “This morning we had a meeting when Ibrahim Mahama visited the team hotel together with Ambassador Victor Smith and the Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa.”
He said the players’ reaction whenever Queiroz’s name was mentioned spoke volumes which anytime mentioned sparks”huge applause” and added that “the smiles from the players tells it all that they really have accepted him.” “They really have accepted him and I’m happy for it.”
Knockout Berth Looks Secured
Ghana head into their final Group L match against Croatia in a strong position after collecting four points from their opening two matches following the victory over Panama and holding 1966 World Cup champions England to a goalless draw.
The Black Stars are almost certain to secure a place in the Round of 32 at least as one of the best third-placed teams based on results elsewhere, while Croatia require at least a point to mathematically seal qualification.
For Zlatko Dalić’s side, even defeat could still be enough to progress depending on results in the other groups, provided they avoid a heavy loss against the Black Stars.
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