Kurt Okraku Hails Carlos Queiroz’s Leadership as Black Stars Intensify World Cup Preparations
Ghana Football Association President Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku has expressed admiration for Black Stars head coach Carlos Queiroz, highlighting the Portuguese manager’s experience, leadership qualities and commanding presence as key assets ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Queiroz was appointed earlier this year on a short-term contract following the departure of Otto Addo, with the veteran coach tasked with guiding Ghana through the global tournament in North America.
Since taking charge, the former Portugal, Iran, Egypt and Colombia manager has quickly settled into his role, earning praise from the GFA leadership as preparations for the World Cup gather momentum.
Speaking to GFA Media, Okraku said the impact of the 73-year-old’s vast experience has already been evident within the national team environment.
“So far, it’s been good. He is a man of his word with over 40 years of experience at the highest level of football, both at club and international level,” he said.
The GFA president believes Queiroz’s reputation and confidence naturally command respect among players and officials, qualities he considers vital for a team preparing for football’s biggest competition.
“His skillset is there for everybody to see. He is extremely firm in his belief.
“When we say that somebody has seen it all, he really fits that bill. I like the fact that when he walks into the dressing room, he commands natural respect,” Mr Okraku added.
Queiroz’s first match in charge ended in a 1-1 draw against Wales in Cardiff, a result that offered encouraging signs as the Black Stars continue to build towards the World Cup.
The four-time African champions are now based in the United States, where the team is fine-tuning preparations ahead of its opening group-stage fixture.
Ghana have been drawn in Group L alongside England, Croatia and Panama in what promises to be a challenging route to the knockout stages.
The Black Stars will begin their campaign against Panama on June 17 at BMO Field before taking on England at Gillette Stadium six days later. Their final group match is scheduled for June 27 against Croatia.
Having failed to progress beyond the group stage at the 2014 and 2022 World Cups, Ghana will be aiming to reach the knockout rounds for the first time since their memorable quarter-final run in South Africa in 2010.
With Queiroz at the helm and confidence growing within the camp, the Black Stars are hopeful of making a strong statement on the world stage once the tournament gets underway.
