Ghana's new head coach Carlos Queiroz says his job is the biggest challenge of his 43-year coaching career.

What happened?

The 73-year-old Portuguese coach was unveiled as the head coach of Ghana men's national team last week. He signed a four-month contract with the Ghana Football Association through the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Why it matters for Ghana

Queiroz took charge with 50-odd days remaining before Ghana opens their World Cup campaign against Panama on June 17 in Toronto. Ghana has not advanced beyond the group stage since reaching the quarterfinals at the 2010 World Cup.

What comes next?

Queiroz replaces Otto Addo, who was dismissed on March 31 after Ghana lost 5-1 to Austria and 2-1 to Germany in consecutive March friendlies. Recent form: | Date | Result | | --- | --- | | 2026-03-30 | Germany 2-1 Ghana | Ghana has lost their last 4 matches, with a recent form of 1W-0D-4L.

Queiroz said his staff had already begun detailed analysis of the player pool. He cited his African origins as personally significant, having been born and raised in Mozambique. Squad selection would be decided strictly on merit, with no exemptions for established names.

Ghana boasts one of the most talented groups of players in Africa. Queiroz wants the players to come out with their heads up and be proud of their efforts after each game. He said selection criteria would weigh performance, experience, character, and attitude.

Ghana is placed in Group L alongside England and Croatia. The Black Stars failed to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, their first absence from the continental tournament in 21 years.

Last result: Germany 2-1 Ghana (2026-03-30). Recent form (last 5): 1W-0D-4L (LLLLW, most recent first); lost the last 4.