2026 World Cup: Croatia scored easy goals against us, says Black Stars coach Carlos Queiroz

Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz has attributed his side’s 2-1 defeat to Croatia in their final Group L match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup to avoidable defensive errors.

Despite the loss, the Black Stars had already booked their place in the Round of 32, finishing third in the group with four points from three matches.

Speaking after the game, Queiroz insisted Croatia made the most of Ghana’s mistakes, even though his team controlled large spells of the second half.

“Croatia scored two very easy goals, but the only thing that matters in football is that when you score, you win. They played better in the first half, but in the second half, it was only Ghana playing. They capitalised on our mistakes, with a couple of back passes where we lost control of the ball,” he said.

The veteran coach expressed frustration over the manner of the goals conceded, describing them as unacceptable at this level of competition.

“The goals we conceded were too easy and not at the level of a World Cup. We cannot concede a goal from 40 metres at this level.”

Queiroz also singled out Croatia captain Luka Modrić for praise, acknowledging his influence on the match.

“Luka Modrić did well as usual as the playmaker. We tried to block his decisions, but it was difficult to control him.”

Ghana now turn their attention to the Round of 32, where they will face Colombia on Saturday, July 4, at the Kansas City Stadium, with a place in the last 16 at stake.