Ghana have confirmed Carlos Queiroz will remain as head coach of the Black Stars for the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualification campaign. The 73-year-old Portuguese manager's new mandate begins immediately with the next international window, as reported by cafonline.com this week.
Queiroz's initial short-term deal expired after Ghana's participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Under his guidance, the team reached the tournament's knockout stage for the first time since 2010. Their journey ended with a 1-0 defeat to Colombia in the Round of 32 on July 4, 2026. That result contributed to a recent form line showing three consecutive losses, with the Black Stars' last five matches yielding zero wins, two draws, and three defeats.
What does the new contract involve?
The Ghana Football Association and the Ministry of Sports and Recreation have agreed on fresh terms with Carlos Queiroz. Specific details regarding the contract's duration and financial arrangements have not been made public. His previous agreement was a temporary arrangement focused solely on the World Cup, which concluded with Ghana finishing third in their group with four points from one win, one draw, and one loss.
Queiroz took charge of the national team in April of this year. He expressed his commitment in a statement, saying, "Following discussions with the GFA and the Ministry of Sports and Recreation, it was agreed that Queiroz would start a new coaching mandate, commencing with the upcoming international window." The veteran coach brings a wealth of experience, having previously managed Portugal, Iran, Egypt, Colombia, South Africa, and Qatar, along with two spells as Sir Alex Ferguson's assistant at Manchester United.
What are Ghana's immediate fixtures?
The Black Stars' first task under this renewed setup is the 2027 TotalEnergies CAF AFCON qualifiers. They have been drawn into Group C alongside Côte d'Ivoire, The Gambia, and Somalia. Ghana's campaign kicks off with a challenging away fixture against Côte d'Ivoire in Bouaké. Their first home match will see them host The Gambia at the capital's stadium in Accra. Fans can track the full qualification schedule on our dedicated fixtures page.
This qualification bid carries extra weight after Ghana failed to reach the previous AFCON tournament held in Morocco. The team's current statistical profile shows two goals scored and two conceded in their most recent competitive outings, resulting in a neutral goal difference. Support for Queiroz's continuation came from high levels, including public backing from President John Dramani Mahama for a longer-term project. Team captain Jordan Ayew also voiced his approval for retaining the manager.
How did Queiroz frame the challenge ahead?
In a social media post, Carlos Queiroz articulated his vision for the role beyond just tactics and results. He wrote on Instagram, "Serving Ghana is far more than coaching a football team." He outlined a broader mission to "improve every day, unite the nation, make Ghana stronger and fight for every victory with passion, humility and pride."
This sentiment shows the task of rebuilding consistent performance. The team's form has been a concern, with the recent sequence of results including losses in their last three matches. Queiroz's immediate job is to stabilize the squad and build momentum starting with the tough trip to Côte d'Ivoire. Supporters can review the latest player selections and team data on our squad and stats resources.
What is the context of Ghana's recent performances?
Ghana's World Cup campaign, which secured their knockout stage place, was a clear highlight. However, the broader picture includes a need for more consistent results. The 1-0 loss to Colombia in the Round of 32 was their most recent official match. That defeat forms part of a winless run in their last five internationals.
The decision to stick with Queiroz suggests the football authorities are prioritizing continuity and the long-term development plan he has proposed. His extensive resume and experience in African football, including a previous stint with Egypt, were likely significant factors. The immediate focus is now squarely on preparing the team for their opening AFCON qualifier away to Côte d'Ivoire later this year.
