2026 World Cup: Black Stars players want to die for the shirt, says Carlos Queiroz

Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz has expressed strong confidence in his final squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting the players are fully committed and ready to give everything for the nation.

The Portuguese trainer on Monday, June 1, unveiled his final 26-man squad for the tournament in North America, with 15 players set to make their World Cup debut.

Speaking after announcing the squad, Queiroz highlighted the passion and determination within the team, revealing that personal conversations with the players reinforced his belief in their commitment to the Black Stars' cause.

“Enjoy it. Be proud of your team. We’re going to give our best. The players want to die for the shirt. I did individual interviews with all of them. I was touched by the feelings they expressed about playing for the Black Stars,” he said.

According to Queiroz, the players understand the significance of representing Ghana on football’s biggest stage and are prepared to face the challenge with pride and determination.

“Believe me, they have great respect for the nation and the people. I’m sure they’ll do their best. But this is not a walk in the park. It’s not a day at the beach. We play the best teams in the world. They have the same wish, desire, motivation, ambition."

The Black Stars are currently intensifying preparations for the World Cup with a series of international friendlies. Ghana will face Wales at the Cardiff City Stadium before taking on Jamaica on June 10 in their final warm-up fixture.

Focus will then shift to the World Cup campaign, where Ghana have been drawn in a challenging Group L alongside Panama, England and Croatia.

The four-time African champions begin their tournament against Panama on June 17 at BMO Field before meeting England six days later. Ghana will conclude their group-stage campaign against Croatia on June 27.

Having suffered consecutive group-stage eliminations at recent World Cups, the Black Stars will be eager to progress beyond the first round for the first time since their historic quarter-final appearance at the 2010 tournament in South Africa.