Former Asante Kotoko Board Chairman, Herbert Mensah, has offered a candid and thought-provoking assessment of the Black Stars of Ghana as anticipation builds ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Newly-appointed Carlos Queiroz has 46 days to prepare the Black Stars for the opener against Panama on June 17 at the BMO Field in Toronto, Canada, hoping to make it out of the group stage for the first time since 2010.
Queiroz has until June 1 to submit his final Black Stars squad for the expanded 48-team tournament.
Herbert Mensah, speaking to Luv FM, acknowledged the pedigree of Carlos Queiroz, describing him as “a very accomplished coach” despite his less impressive record at the World Cup.
The Portuguese is set to appear at his fifth World Cup, having qualified Iran for the last three editions. He notably reached the 2010 Round of 16 with Portugal.
Over 16 matches spanning 2002–2022, his record is 4 wins, 4 draws, and 8 losses.
According to Mensah, Queiroz’s experience and tactical awareness could still prove vital for the Black Stars as they navigate Group L with England, Croatia and Panama.
“He [Carlos Queiroz] does not have a great record at the World Cup, but that does not mean he’s not a very accomplished coach,” Herbert said.
Herbert Mensah pointed to a history of administrative inefficiencies, noting that despite these setbacks, the players have consistently shown determination to deliver moments of brilliance, but it’s difficult this time.
“The Black Stars have seen this through the history of time, poor administration, and yet the players themselves try their hardest to produce something special.
“I think this time it will be a little bit difficult for them. The balance of where they go in terms of the group means that anything is possible.
There’s no reason they can’t win early matches and then strategically plan as to where they’ll go with the next. Carlos Queiroz certainly understands that terrain.
“But are the players good enough? Have they been well prepared? Are they stable? Are they demoralised by what’s going on? What is the leadership team and the team like?
“How does it really work within the caucus group of the black stars, and whether the management team themselves are okay, and there’s a lot of self -examination,” said Herbert.
