- “No Friendlies in Black Stars Shirt” — Queiroz Warns Ahead of Wales Clash
New Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz has sent a strong message ahead of the Black Stars’ international friendly against Wales, insisting there are “no friendlies” whenever players wear the Ghana jersey.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference in Cardiff on Monday, the former Portugal and Iran manager said Ghana’s preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup are gathering momentum, with his players fully committed to making the nation proud.
Queiroz described Tuesday’s encounter as another important step in the Black Stars’ World Cup journey, stressing that his team will approach the match with a winning mentality despite its friendly status.
“We are ready to take off and start the flight straight to the World Cup,” Queiroz declared. “Tomorrow, it’s just another day that we have to play. We try to be the best team on the pitch and the best team playing football.”
The experienced tactician praised the attitude of his squad during the training camp, revealing that players who arrived early showed strong commitment and helped preparations run smoothly.
According to him, modern football presents challenges with player availability, but Ghana have managed to stay on course ahead of the tournament.
“The players are ready and excited,” he said. “We want to play great football, we want to play to win and we want to bring pride and happiness to the fans.”
Queiroz also dismissed suggestions that the match should be treated lightly because it forms part of Wales’ 150th anniversary celebrations.
“For us, there is no preparation game or friendly game,” he stressed. “When we start to play with the shirt on our shoulders, we try to win.”
The coach confirmed that defender Alexander Djiku had been replaced in the squad after an unexpected situation, but expressed confidence in the centre-backs currently in camp.
“We are ready to take off,” he added.
Asked about his expectations for Ghana at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Queiroz avoided setting specific targets, choosing instead to focus on taking the competition one game at a time.
“I play one game each time,” he said. “The success is to go there and make sure that when we finish our journey, the pride and honour of the country will be higher than ever.”
The Portuguese coach also spoke warmly about Ghana’s passion for football, describing it as one of the country’s greatest strengths.
“What surprised me the most was the passion,” he said. “Ghana has talented players and passionate people. That is an explosive combination to succeed in football.”
Queiroz even shared a lighter moment from his time in Ghana, joking that he had become a fan of the country’s avocado sweets.
The Black Stars boss also addressed questions about pressure, saying it is a natural part of football management.
“If a coach cannot cope with pressure, he cannot be a coach,” he explained. “Pressure keeps us hungry and alert.”
On criticism over the inclusion of Thomas Partey in the squad, Queiroz defended his decision by pointing to the principle of innocence until proven guilty.
“As far as I know, until the court makes a decision, the presumption of innocence remains,” he said.
Queiroz also refused to be drawn into speculation about outside influence on squad selection, responding to one question with only a smile.
The Ghana coach further revealed his admiration for the squad but insisted he values the collective more than individuals, even when discussing stars such as Antoine Semenyo following his impressive season in England.
“My favourite player is called team,” he said.
Tuesday’s clash against Wales will provide Black Stars fans with an early glimpse of Queiroz’s vision as Ghana intensify preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
