Ghana Coach Carlos Queiroz Calls for Elevated Performance in World Cup Clash with Croatia

As Ghana prepares for its final group stage match against Croatia in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, head coach Carlos Queiroz has emphasized the need for his team to raise their level of play, asserting that victory is the only acceptable outcome in Saturday’s encounter at Lincoln Financial Field.

Speaking ahead of the 5 p.m. kickoff, Queiroz acknowledged the quality of the Croatian side despite their recent 4-2 defeat to England, suggesting that the scoreline did not do justice to the team’s capabilities. “I think after I saw the game several times, they even deserve a better result. I think the result four-two was too heavy for Croatia,” the Ghanaian coach stated, indicating his belief that the Europeans remain a formidable opponent.

This perspective has led Queiroz to instill a sense of urgency and focus within the Ghanaian camp. “We know that they have a good team, they play good football against England,” he said, adding, “That’s why we are full alert. We know that that result doesn’t really show the capabilities of Croatia and they prove it against Panama.”

The reference to Panama is significant, as Ghana began their World Cup campaign with a 2-1 victory over that same team, followed by a goalless draw with England. These results have left Ghana joint at the top of Group L with four points, setting the stage for a decisive showdown with Croatia to determine which side advances to the Round of 32.

Queiroz was unequivocal about his tactical approach, rejecting any notion of playing for a draw despite Ghana’s joint-top position in the group. “I only have one way to play the game. It is play for win and that is what we going to do tomorrow,” he declared, underlining a mandate that leaves no room for caution or conservatism.

Central to Queiroz’s message was a call for improved execution and mental fortitude throughout the 90 minutes. He urged his players to “express ourselves and have the freedom to enjoy and play good football” while maintaining “the same concentration and same resilience” from the first whistle to the last. The coach’s specific instruction was for his team to avoid any lapses in focus: “The only thing that I ask them is never lose one second in the mind that wish to go there and build up the result to win the game.”

The Ghanaian coach detailed how the team’s preparations have been tailored to this singular objective. “All our training session have been to create opportunities to score, keep the ball and win,” Queiroz explained, expressing hope that the squad would be able to “express ourselves better, more consistent this kind of football” in order to achieve the desired result.

Queiroz also touched on the inherent difficulties of tournament football, where divided attention can be costly. “The game of football is so difficult. You cannot play two or three games at the same time. We just focus on one game, which is Croatia, and get results,” he stated, reinforcing the importance of concentrating solely on the immediate challenge.

In discussing Croatia’s strengths, Queiroz paid particular homage to their captain and midfield maestro, Luka Modric. Describing the Real Madrid veteran as “one of the most brilliant players in football history in the last few years,” the Ghanaian coach acknowledged the test posed by facing such a world-class talent. “Playing against a great team, which is Croatia, with a lot of wonderful players, experienced players, for sure it will be tough, intensive for both sides. But at the end of the day, I do believe it will be a lot of fun and entertainment for everybody.”

Despite recognizing the quality of the opposition, Queiroz remained focused on Ghana’s own performance as the key to success. “Play good football. With good football, be better than them on the pitch. That’s what we’re going to try to do. Fight more, be better. Because we know if we’re able to do that, we have more chances to get the result.”

He concluded by framing the match as an opportunity for Ghana to assert their ambitions on the global stage. “Croatia deserves our respect, full respect… We have to play the best we can, fight as much as possible to get the best result. And the best result is to be number one,” Queiroz said, summing up his belief that a committed, focused effort from his players would yield the outcome they seek.

This match represents more than just a group stage fixture for Ghana; it is a chance to validate their progress and keep alive hopes of a deep tournament run. With Queiroz’s emphasis on winning mentality, technical execution, and unwavering concentration, the Black Stars head into the contest knowing that their fate in Group L rests on their ability to heed his call for being “more strong and better.”

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