Former Germany international Gerald Asamoah has called on newly appointed Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz to urgently address the Black Stars’ defensive shortcomings as the team builds up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Queiroz, who has taken over on a short-term contract following Otto Addo’s dismissal in March, inherits a side under scrutiny after consecutive friendly defeats to Austria and Germany in March, results that ultimately triggered the coaching change.
Speaking to 3Sports, Asamoah stressed the need for clarity in Ghana’s tactical identity, arguing that the team must better balance its attacking strengths with improved defensive organisation.
He noted that Ghana continue to possess significant attacking talent, with a strong pool of forwards and creative midfielders capable of breaking down opponents.
However, he warned that defensive instability remains a persistent weakness that cannot be ignored at the highest level.
“What are we good at? Are we good at defending or the offensive game? We are really good in offensive games, so we need to work on our offence, and we need to work on our defensive play,” he said.
“Keeping the defence is one of the important things you can do as a coach,” Asamoah added.
Queiroz is expected to officially begin work with the squad next month, with friendly matches lined up against Mexico and Wales as part of Ghana’s final preparations.
The Black Stars will make their fifth World Cup appearance in 2026 after being drawn in Group L alongside Panama, England and Croatia. They open their campaign against Panama on June 17, before facing England on June 23 and Croatia on June 27.
After early exits in 2014 and 2022, Queiroz faces the challenge of restoring confidence and guiding Ghana to a more competitive showing on football’s biggest stage.
