Veteran Portuguese coach Carlos Queiroz has been appointed as the head coach of Ghana's national football team, the Black Stars, on a short-term contract leading up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Ghana Football Association (GFA) confirmed the appointment following the dismissal of Otto Addo in March after consecutive friendly defeats to Austria and Germany.
Why it matters: Queiroz's experience is expected to bolster Ghana's chances at the upcoming World Cup, particularly after disappointing performances in previous tournaments.
The GFA's decision to hire Queiroz comes after extensive consultations with key stakeholders, aiming to stabilize the team's leadership.
Queiroz brings a wealth of experience from coaching top clubs and national teams, making him a strategic choice for the Black Stars.
Driving the news: The announcement of Queiroz's appointment marks a new chapter for the Black Stars as they prepare for their fifth World Cup appearance.
Queiroz takes over from Otto Addo, who was let go after disappointing results in friendly matches.
The GFA Executive Council endorsed the decision, highlighting the urgency to turn the team's fortunes around ahead of the World Cup.
State of play: Queiroz, who turns 74 this year, is expected to begin assessing the squad immediately as preparations ramp up for the global tournament.
He will meet the players next month during an international friendly against Mexico, followed by another match against Wales on June 2, 2026.
Ghana is drawn in Group L, set to face Panama on June 17, England on June 23, and Croatia on June 27.
The big picture: Queiroz's appointment comes at a time when the Black Stars aim to improve their World Cup performance after lackluster outings in 2014 and 2022.
His track record includes guiding Portugal to the Round of 16 in the 2010 World Cup and leading Iran in the 2014 and 2018 tournaments.
Queiroz also played a key role in South Africa's qualification for the 2002 World Cup.
What they're saying: The football community has reacted positively to Queiroz's appointment, emphasizing his vast experience.
“Carlos Queiroz is a battle-tested coach who knows how to maximize the potential of his teams,” said a GFA spokesperson.
Fans are hopeful that his tactical discipline will transform the Black Stars into a competitive side.
By the numbers: Queiroz's coaching career spans multiple continents and includes notable achievements.
He has taken four different national teams to the FIFA World Cup: South Africa (2002), Portugal (2010), and Iran (2014, 2018, and 2022).
During his time with Iran, he was the longest-serving coach from 2011 to 2019, qualifying them for two consecutive World Cups.
Queiroz has coached in over 10 countries across five continents, including stints in South Africa, Colombia, Egypt, Qatar, UAE, Japan, and the USA.
Between the lines: Queiroz’s approach is characterized by tactical discipline and a strong focus on team organization.
He is known for turning underdog teams into formidable opponents, often achieving results with limited resources.
His experience with youth teams, including Portugal's Under-20 squad that won back-to-back FIFA World Youth Championships, showcases his ability to develop talent.
What's next: As the Black Stars prepare for their World Cup campaign, expectations are high for Queiroz to deliver results.
With Ghana's first match against Panama on June 17, 2026, time is of the essence for Queiroz to instill his tactics and philosophy.
The team will look to build momentum during their friendlies against Mexico and Wales before the tournament begins.