- Ghana Chasing Victory, Not Safety, Against Croatia, Says Queiroz
Head coach of the Black Stars, Carlos Queiroz, has dismissed suggestions that the Black Stars should adopt a cautious approach in their decisive FIFA World Cup 2026 Group L clash against Croatia, insisting his side will play only for victory despite needing just a draw to secure qualification for the knockout stage.
The Black Stars have enjoyed an encouraging start to their World Cup campaign, collecting four points from their opening two matches. Ghana opened the tournament with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Panama before producing a disciplined defensive display to hold England to a goalless draw.
Those results have left Ghana in a strong position heading into their final group match, with a single point against Croatia enough to guarantee a place in the Round of 32. However, Queiroz has made it clear that his team will not enter the contest looking to protect a result.
Speaking ahead of the crucial encounter, the experienced Portuguese tactician brushed aside ongoing debate over whether Ghana should prioritise defence and settle for a draw.
“A lot of talk about attack and defence, but I only know how to play for a win and that’s what we will do against Croatia,” Queiroz declared.
His comments underline the mentality he has sought to instil since taking charge of the Black Stars. Since his appointment, Ghana have shown greater tactical organisation, resilience and discipline, qualities that have helped restore belief among supporters and revived the team’s fortunes on the international stage.
While Ghana’s draw against England earned widespread praise for its defensive solidity, Queiroz appears determined to ensure that performance is not mistaken for a conservative philosophy. Instead, he believes his players must remain ambitious and continue playing with the confidence that has characterised their campaign.
Croatia, finalists at the 2018 World Cup, are expected to provide Ghana’s sternest challenge of the group stage. Yet Queiroz believes the best way to approach the contest is by remaining faithful to the team’s identity rather than becoming overly cautious because of the favourable qualification scenario.
Victory over the Europeans would not only guarantee Ghana’s passage into the knockout rounds but could also see the Black Stars finish as Group L winners, depending on the outcome of the other group fixture. Securing top spot could prove crucial, potentially offering a more favourable route through the knockout stages.
The Ghana coach also understands the psychological value of pursuing victory. Encouraging his players to attack and seek all three points rather than defend a draw could help maintain momentum and confidence as the tournament enters its decisive phase.
The Black Stars have already captured the imagination of supporters back home through their disciplined performances and growing belief. With qualification within reach, anticipation is building ahead of what promises to be one of Ghana’s most important matches in recent years.
