Black Stars head coach Carlos Queiroz has acknowledged the immense pressure that comes with leading Ghana into the 2026 FIFA World Cup but insists it remains a vital source of motivation.
The 73-year-old tactician was appointed on a short-term deal in March following the dismissal of Otto Addo and now faces the task of guiding the four-time African champions at football’s biggest tournament.
Speaking to the media ahead of Ghana’s pre-World Cup friendly against Wales at the Cardiff City Stadium, Queiroz said pressure is an unavoidable part of elite coaching and one he willingly embraces.
“Of course, I feel pressure. I don’t think there is any manager heading into the World Cup that does not feel pressure,” he said.
“The pressure in this job is what drives us forward, to be better every day. The day there’s no pressure, our job ends as coaches,” Queiroz added.
The upcoming tournament will mark Queiroz’s fifth appearance at the World Cup, further adding to a coaching career that has taken him to the global stage with several national teams.
Meanwhile, the Portuguese coach has unveiled his final 26-man squad for the tournament as preparations intensify.
Ghana, making their fifth appearance at the World Cup, have been drawn in Group L alongside England, Croatia and Panama.
The Black Stars will begin their campaign against Panama on June 17 at BMO Field before taking on England on June 23 at Gillette Stadium. Their final group-stage fixture will be against Croatia on June 27.
The four-time African champions will be aiming to advance beyond the group stage for the first time since their memorable run to the quarter-finals at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa.
