By Simon Asare
Accra, Sept. 30, GNA – Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz has accepted full responsibility for the Black Stars’ stunning 4-2 defeat to The Gambia in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier at the Accra Sports Stadium.
Speaking in a post-match interview, Queiroz apologised to fans and admitted it was a painful result for the team and described the loss as a terrible day for Ghanaian football.
“There is not much to say today after the terrible result for us. I, the staff and all the players are deeply sad with the result. We have to say sorry to our fans and supporters for what happened in the stadium,” he said.
The Black Stars appeared to be in complete control after first-half goals from Ernest Nuamah and Felix Afena-Gyan put them 2-0 ahead. However, two quick goals from The Gambia before halftime shifted the momentum and left Ghana struggling to recover.
Queiroz said the setback affected the team’s confidence and ultimately changed the course of the match.
The Portuguese tactician insisted responsibility for the defeat rested with him and urged critics not to blame the players, whom he believes remain capable of securing qualification for the continental tournament.
Addressing calls for his resignation, Queiroz said stepping down would be the easiest option but questioned whether a change of coach alone would solve Ghana’s football challenges.
“When we have a result like this, the option to resign is the easiest solution. If you believe that with the coach resigning you can change the situation of football in Ghana, I will be the first one to resign,” he said.
“I don’t have that belief, but that is a decision for the Federation board to analyse and decide together with me. The future of a coach is always in the hands of God and the results.”
Queiroz also rejected suggestions that the defeat defined his coaching career, noting that setbacks are part of football.
“I have lost games before. Despite this loss, I still have the top record of wins in international football. This defeat does not make me a loser. It makes me more alert to the lessons we must learn and what we need to do better in the future, with me or without me,” he stated.
Reflecting on the match, he said Ghana had executed their game plan effectively during the early stages and looked capable of extending their advantage before conceding two costly goals.
“In football, you win or you learn. In the first half we controlled the game, scored two goals and everyone believed we could score three or four. Then two accidents happened and the team went down.”
Despite the disappointing result, Queiroz maintained that Ghana’s qualification hopes remained alive and called for renewed focus ahead of the remaining fixtures.
“We cannot say it is a step back. What we can do is be better prepared, better organised for the next games and win the next games. That is what we have to do,” he added.
The defeat leaves Ghana facing increased pressure in Group C as they seek to revive their campaign and secure a place at the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
GNA
Edited by Kenneth Odeng Adade
Reporter: Simon Asare
Email: [email protected]