Sports and Recreation Minister Kofi Adams has urged the Black Stars to use the disappointment of their 2026 FIFA World Cup exit as motivation, insisting the team has the quality to achieve greater success in future tournaments.
The Minister delivered his message to the players after Ghana’s 1-0 defeat to Colombia in the Round of 32 at Kansas City Stadium, commending the team’s overall performance despite falling short of their objective.
“We have what it takes to partake in every World Cup and get out of the group stages and even go further,” Adams said.
“So, we didn’t make it. Our wish was that we would have carried the day. But we played so well and I believe we don’t regret we went in. Everybody is congratulating us on having a good team. It means you exhibited something good on the pitch.”
Adams encouraged the players to reflect on the campaign and treat the mistakes made during the tournament as valuable lessons that will strengthen the team going forward.
“What we need is the very few mistakes that we made to become a learning platform for all of us. You become a better player of yourself in the various roles that you play in the team. It should not dampen you,” he added.
The Minister also echoed head coach Carlos Queiroz’s emphasis on teamwork, reminding the squad that their responsibilities to the national team are far from over, with the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers on the horizon.
“As the coach said, he has a team and not individual skilful players. So, we came as a team, we played as a team, and we are returning as a team. And to continue our individual careers, also. So, it is not the end of international competitions. We are going to be calling on you, and you would have to be responding to these calls for the various qualifiers that are ahead of us.”
Adams further advised the players not to be discouraged by criticism following the team’s elimination, particularly on social media, but instead use it as fuel to improve.
“The country is grateful for what we have done. Let’s learn lessons from whatever situation arose and brought us to this point. I know that as we leave here, those of you who love to go on social media will see all manner of postings, analysis, and criticism.
“Please and please, you are professional ballers. Let no such comment dampen anyone. If for anything, it should motivate you to do more. Those who are watching will do their own analysis. Don’t let it dampen any one of you. It should motivate you to be a better person.”
He concluded by thanking the players for their commitment and service to the nation throughout the World Cup campaign.
“You came as a team, you have played as a team, you have done what we can do, and we have reached this point. We are grateful for the service you rendered the country, and the country is grateful.”
The defeat also signals the end of Carlos Queiroz’s brief spell as Black Stars head coach, with the Portuguese trainer stepping down after the tournament.
Queiroz had been appointed on a short-term contract ahead of the World Cup following the dismissal of Otto Addo earlier this year.
