Ghana has reappointed Carlos Queiroz as head coach of the Black Stars, ending a 72-day search for leadership. The 73-year-old Portuguese manager returns on an interim two-month contract, as reported by Al Jazeera on Wednesday.
Queiroz previously managed Ghana, stepping down after guiding the team to the Round of 32 at the World Cup. His new mandate begins with the upcoming international window from September 21 to October 6. The Ghana Football Association stated, "The GFA believes Queiroz’s extensive international experience, technical expertise, and knowledge of the Black Stars position him strongly to lead the team into this next chapter."
Why did Ghana need a new coach?
The Black Stars have been without a permanent manager since parting ways with Otto Addo in March. That decision followed friendly defeats by Austria and Germany. The team's recent form has been poor, with no wins in their last five matches. Their most recent result was a 1-0 loss to Colombia on July 4 in the World Cup.
Ghana currently sits third in their World Cup group with four points from three games. They have scored two goals and conceded two, leaving them with a zero goal difference. The team is three points behind group leaders England. You can track their progress in the standings.
What experience does Queiroz bring?
Carlos Queiroz possesses one of international football's most extensive resumes. He has coached Portugal, Iran, Colombia, Egypt, Japan, South Africa, and Mozambique at various points in his long career. Queiroz guided Portugal to the round of 16 at the 2010 World Cup. He also led Iran in the last three World Cup editions, recording three wins across thirteen matches.
His familiarity with the Ghanaian squad from his previous tenure was a key factor in his reappointment. The GFA emphasized his technical knowledge as vital for the immediate challenges ahead.
What are Ghana's immediate fixtures?
The Black Stars face important home and away matches against Ivory Coast in 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying during the September-October window. These games represent Queiroz's first competitive tests since returning. The full schedule of upcoming matches is available on our fixtures page.
Ghana's squad will be missing Kamaldeen Sulemana, who is currently sidelined. The team's recent form shows three consecutive losses followed by two draws. Queiroz must address this slide quickly as he prepares the team for the Ivory Coast double-header.
How does this affect World Cup preparations?
While the immediate focus is on Africa Cup of Nations qualification, the World Cup campaign remains ongoing. Ghana's position in third place requires consistent results to secure advancement. Queiroz's experience in navigating major tournament qualifying will be tested immediately.
The interim nature of his two-month contract suggests the GFA is evaluating options while ensuring stability for the upcoming qualifiers. His previous World Cup success with Ghana gives him credibility with players and fans during this transitional period. The first-team squad roster can be viewed on our squad page.
Queiroz begins work with the Black Stars ahead of their September 21 qualifier against Ivory Coast, aiming to improve a record of zero wins from their last five outings.
