Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz has made it clear that nothing short of victory will be acceptable when the Black Stars begin their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign against Panama.
Speaking ahead of the Group L encounter, the experienced Portuguese manager described the fixture as a “must-win,” insisting that results remain the ultimate measure of success in football.
“It’s a must-win game [against Panama. I don’t remember in my life any game I played that wasn’t a must-win. Our value is based on results, and the only medicine that works in football is to win,” Carlos Oueiroz told reporters.
The opening match is set for Wednesday, June 17, with kick-off scheduled for 23:00 GMT.
Panama, meanwhile, enter the contest with added motivation as they chase their first-ever World Cup victory in history.
The showdown at BMO Field has attracted significant attention, with Ghana targeting a strong start in what will be their fifth appearance on football’s biggest stage.
After facing Panama, Ghana will take on England at Gillette Stadium on June 23 before wrapping up their Group L fixtures against Croatia on June 27.
The Black Stars will be hoping to advance beyond the group stage for the first time since their memorable quarter-final run at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.
