Carlos Queiroz Retained as Black Stars Coach Ahead of AFCON 2027 Qualifiers – GFA Confirms New Mandate

by Mawuli
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Carlos Queiroz will continue as Black Stars head coach after the Ghana Football Association (GFA) officially confirmed a new coaching mandate for the experienced Portuguese manager.

The decision follows Ghana’s impressive performance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where the Black Stars reached the knockout stage for the first time in 16 years.

The announcement comes after discussions between the GFA and the Ministry of Sports and Recreation, with Queiroz now set to lead Ghana into the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.

GFA Backs Carlos Queiroz for Black Stars Rebuilding Project

The 73-year-old coach’s previous four-month contract, which covered Ghana’s World Cup campaign, expired shortly after the tournament. However, the GFA opted for continuity instead of appointing a new coach, citing Queiroz’s international experience, tactical expertise, and positive impact on the national team.

In an official statement, the GFA said Queiroz’s new mandate begins with the upcoming international window as Ghana prepares for crucial AFCON qualifying matches.

Black Stars Face Côte d’Ivoire and Gambia in AFCON Qualifiers

Queiroz’s first assignment under the new deal will be a challenging away fixture against Côte d’Ivoire in Bouaké on September 24, 2026. Ghana will then host The Gambia in Accra on September 29, 2026, as the Black Stars begin their quest to qualify for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

The football governing body believes maintaining the current technical direction gives Ghana the best chance of building on its recent World Cup progress.

President John Mahama and Jordan Ayew Supported Queiroz’s Stay

The decision to retain Carlos Queiroz follows strong public backing from President John Dramani Mahama and Black Stars captain Jordan Ayew, both of whom urged the GFA to keep the coach after Ghana’s World Cup exit.

Jordan Ayew praised Queiroz’s achievements during his short spell in charge, describing him as the right manager to take Ghana to the next level.

“I want Carlos Queiroz to stay. I believe he is the right man to take us to the next level,” Ayew said after Ghana’s defeat to Colombia at the World Cup.

President Mahama also emphasized the importance of coaching stability, saying Ghana needs continuity if it hopes to compete for future AFCON and FIFA World Cup titles.

Carlos Queiroz Guided Ghana to First World Cup Knockout Stage Since 2010

Despite having only a few weeks to prepare the team before the World Cup, Queiroz helped Ghana advance from a difficult group and reach the knockout rounds for the first time since the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa.

Although the Black Stars were eliminated by Colombia in the Round of 32, the team earned praise for its improved organization, competitiveness, and tactical discipline under the Portuguese coach.

The GFA believes those performances laid a strong foundation for Ghana’s long-term football rebuilding strategy.

Details of New Carlos Queiroz Contract Remain Undisclosed

While the GFA has confirmed Carlos Queiroz will remain Black Stars coach, it has not revealed the duration or financial details of the new agreement.

With Ghana now entering a new international cycle without another coaching change, Queiroz’s focus will be on delivering successful AFCON 2027 qualification and building a team capable of challenging for major trophies in upcoming continental and global competitions.

Source: newsthemegh.com

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