Black Stars head coach Carlos Queiroz has attributed Ghana’s World Cup exit to Colombia’s superior performance on the day following the Black Stars’ 1-0 defeat in their Round of 32 clash.
Speaking in a post-match interview, Queiroz explained his tactical decisions, including why some impressive performers, such as Thomas Asante, saw limited playing time and were ultimately left out of the matchday squad.
“The important thing was to put the players in the strategic positions for us to win the game. They played when it was necessary to play. Prince also had his opportunities and his contribution. It was necessary to bring on one forward to put pressure on the centre-backs and to run behind them; unfortunately, the ball doesn’t come,” he said.
Asked whether the result was a disappointing one given that Ghana could have won the game, Queiroz focused on Colombia’s overall control of proceedings.
“No, the point is the result. It’s a disappointing result because the boys worked hard and they tried their best, but on the day, especially in the passing and control of the game, the Colombian team was better,” he said.
He further pointed to the physical toll the lack of possession had on his side, noting that Ghana was forced to expend more energy chasing the game.
“This makes things easier for them even in terms of fitness because the ball runs more and they run less. We were forced to run a lot with few moments on the ball, which is very damaging for one team,” he said.
Ghana’s exit means the Black Stars’ winless run against South American nations at the World Cup remains intact, following earlier defeats to Brazil in 2006 and Uruguay in 2010 and 2022.
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“They played when it was necessary to play.”
—Black Stars head coach Carlos Queiroz has defended his selection decisions, explaining why some players, including Thomas Asante, who had impressed with their contributions, saw limited playing time and were left out of Ghana’s… pic.twitter.com/a6jmn2ugpO
— SIKAOFFICIAL🦍 (@SIKAOFFICIAL1) July 4, 2026
