2026 World Cup: Carlos Queiroz confident in players ahead of Ghana's opener against Panama

Black Stars head coach Carlos Queiroz has voiced strong belief in his squad ahead of Ghana’s opening Group L fixture against Panama at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Ghana, aiming to progress beyond the group stage for the first time since 2010, begin their campaign at the BMO Field with kick-off set for 23:00 GMT.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference on Tuesday, the experienced Portuguese manager stressed that football remains unpredictable and that results are ultimately decided on the pitch.

“The final outcome of football is always a mystery. We never know because there is no formula that gives you success in football,” Queiroz said.

“It is what you have to do on the day and how committed you are during the game.”

Queiroz, who has coached at multiple World Cups, emphasised the central role of players in shaping outcomes.

“After all these years, to be honest with you, I have a strong belief that this is a game of players," the former Egypt boss said.

“The moment we start the game, I count on my players, and they are ready for that.”

After facing Panama, Ghana will meet England at Gillette Stadium on June 23 before wrapping up their Group L fixtures against Croatia on June 27.

The Black Stars will be hoping to reach the knockout stage for the first time since their historic quarter-final run in South Africa in 2010.