Black Stars head coach Carlos Queiroz says Ghana must deliver a flawless performance when they face Colombia in Friday’s FIFA World Cup Round of 32 clash in Kansas City, describing the pressure of knockout football as “a privilege, not a problem.”
Speaking at Thursday’s pre‑match press conference, Queiroz insisted that the encounter is “all for the winner, nothing for the loser,” and backed his players to rise to the occasion. “We have to do everything right for 90 minutes. And that’s it, 120 minutes, if that’s the case. Tomorrow is a game where there is no room for mistakes,” he said.
The Portuguese tactician, who previously coached Colombia, acknowledged the quality of his former side but stressed that Ghana must focus on their own strengths. “Colombia is a great team, but it’s not perfect. We are a great team; we are not perfect. What we have to do is play in our style, in our positive strengths, against the weaker points of Colombia,” he noted.
Queiroz urged his players to embrace the occasion and enjoy the challenge. “We just have to enjoy and do everything that is in our souls, hearts, so that the Black Stars shine tomorrow, and build the result that we want,” he said.
On injuries, Queiroz confirmed that 25 players are fully fit, with only centre‑back Kojo Oppong ruled out. He declined to reveal whether returning goalkeeper Lawrence Ati‑Zigi or Benjamin Asare would start, saying the decision would be communicated to the players first.
Reflecting on his time in Colombia, Queiroz recalled the difficulties of coaching during the COVID‑19 pandemic and paid tribute to his late goalkeeper coach, who died after contracting the virus. He described the match as an opportunity to “celebrate life together” while honouring the sacrifices made.
Queiroz also addressed Ghana’s broader mission at the World Cup, stressing the importance of improving Africa’s record in knockout football. “It is on our shoulders to be sure that we add another African team to the next round. That’s our duty,” he said.
The coach praised the resilience and fighting spirit of his squad, describing Ghanaian players as “skilful, explosive, and brave people who fight until the end to build a result.” He added: “This is in the DNA of these boys in Ghana. It’s nothing that you can build or buy. It’s something that is in the blood of them. They are really great fighters. And I’m very proud to be their coach.”
With Colombia coming off strong performances against DR Congo, Uzbekistan and Portugal, Queiroz acknowledged their organisation and discipline but insisted Ghana would pose different problems. “Tomorrow it is not Portugal that is ahead of Colombia. It is Ghana. And we are going to play our style, with our strength,” he declared.
As Ghana prepares for its knockout debut in Kansas City, Queiroz summed up the moment: “The real World Cup starts now for us. These are the games that count and matter. It’s not only about talent, but also about character, attitude, courage, bravery during 90 minutes.”
