Black Stars head coach Carlos Queiroz has unveiled his final squad for Ghana’s preparations ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, revealing a carefully selected group he believes is capable of carrying the nation’s hopes on football’s biggest stage.
The veteran tactician confirmed a 26-man official squad, supplemented by an additional goalkeeper who will travel and train with the team as emergency cover a move he described as both strategic and forward-thinking.
Speaking ahead of Tuesday’s international friendly against Wales, Carlos Queiroz expressed unwavering confidence in his squad and delivered a passionate message to Ghanaians, insisting his players are prepared to give everything for the national cause.
“The players they want to die for the shirt,” Queiroz declared. “I did individual interviews with all of them and I was touched by the feelings they expressed about playing for the Black Stars.”
Months of Preparation Behind Squad Selection
According to the Portuguese coach, the selection process was extensive and meticulous, involving weeks of observation, video analysis, discussions with club coaches, and consultations with people close to the players.
“It was a long, intensive process. Full of detail,” he explained. “After that systematic process, I’m fully confident. I have full trust in the 26 players I’ve put in the squad.”
Yet Carlos Queiroz revealed that, in reality, he is traveling with 27 players.
“We have the privilege of having another player with us a goalkeeper who accepts to be part of our team, part of our training, and ready if something happens in that department. That gives me comfort and confidence before the World Cup.”
Fourth Goalkeeper Provides Security and Development
The decision to include a fourth goalkeeper may raise eyebrows, but Carlos Queiroz believes it is a necessary precaution in tournament football.
“The goalkeeper department in a short tournament is very sensitive,” he said. “When the World Cup starts, football stops. Nobody is training. If we need to replace a goalkeeper who isn’t ready, it becomes almost impossible.”
Beyond providing emergency cover, Queiroz revealed the move is also part of a long-term plan to develop Ghana’s next generation of goalkeepers.
“He’s young, has fantastic qualities, and we have eyes on the future,” the coach added.
Carlos Queiroz noted that the idea is not unique, having implemented similar measures during previous World Cup campaigns with other national teams.
Injury Blow for Djiku Opens Door for Luckassen
One of the toughest decisions leading up to the tournament came following the injury to defender Alexander Djiku, who was ruled out after sustaining an injury during a cup final.
“It’s one of those moments we don’t like,” Queiroz admitted. “We’ll miss him. He’s a great professional and a great person.”
The injury paved the way for defender Derrick Luckassen to join the squad, with Queiroz stressing that the replacement had always been under consideration.
“When we knew about the injury, we went to our list. Luckassen was ready. I know he’ll be committed, dedicated and perform fantastically for the national team.”
Late Arrivals Present New Challenge
Preparation for the Wales friendly has been far from ideal, with more than half the squad only recently joining camp after completing club commitments.
Queiroz revealed that many players required rest following demanding domestic campaigns, while some clubs extended their seasons with cup finals close to the international release period.
“Today the day before the game is the first time we have the team together,” he said. “To go into a World Cup warm-up friendly with players arriving the day before… that’s an innovation for my football book.”
Despite the disruption, the coach remains focused on ensuring his players arrive mentally fresh and physically prepared.
Team Spirit Above Individual Talent
While Ghana boasts a number of exciting individual talents, Queiroz insists success will depend on collective strength rather than star power.
“It’s not about me. It’s about the shirt and Ghana,” he emphasized.
“My goal has been to build belief that together we can be a very powerful team. Alone, you can be fast. But if you want to become a champion, you do it together.”
The coach highlighted the importance of modern football’s collective approach, demanding full commitment from every player in both attack and defence.
“When we defend, we defend with 14. When we attack, we attack with six or seven. The other team must feel like we’re playing with extra players.”
A Message of Hope and Realism
As excitement builds ahead of the World Cup in Mexico, Canada and the United States, Queiroz urged supporters to dream while remaining realistic about the challenges ahead.
“We dream of success and bringing joy to the people of Ghana,” he said. “But football is a game of opinions, uncertainty and possibilities.”
The Black Stars coach stressed that leadership often requires difficult decisions and expressed complete faith in the balance and harmony of the group he has assembled.
“These are the players I believe are ready as a team to perform better. We have solutions for different games and different moments.”
‘Be Proud of Your Team’
In a heartfelt final message to supporters, Queiroz called on Ghanaians to rally behind the Black Stars as they embark on another World Cup journey.
“Enjoy it. Be proud of your team. We’re going to give our best,” he said.
“This is not a walk in the park. We are playing against the best teams in the world. They have the same ambition and desire that we have. But we’ll go onto the pitch with one thing in mind to make people happy.”
He concluded with a promise that regardless of results, his players will leave everything on the field.
“We’ll fight with a winning mentality. And I hope when our players come off the pitch, they do so with their heads held high proud of themselves and making Ghana proud.”
With the final squad now confirmed and preparations entering their decisive phase, all eyes turn to Tuesday’s clash against Wales before the Black Stars begin their quest for glory at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Source: GFA Communications
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