2026 World Cup: No margin for rrror against Colombia, says Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz
Black Stars head coach Carlos Queiroz has called for a disciplined and near-flawless performance as Ghana prepare to face Colombia in a tense FIFA World Cup Round of 32 encounter on Friday at Kansas City Stadium.
The Portuguese tactician, who previously managed Colombia between 2019 and 2020, described the knockout tie as a high-stakes contest where success brings reward and mistakes prove costly.
“It is an important game for both teams,” he said at his pre-match press conference. “It will be great to see two fantastic teams with different classs committed to winning the game and entertaining the fans.”
Queiroz, an experienced former Real Madrid coach, acknowledged Colombia’s strengths but stressed that his side must focus on the present challenge rather than past encounters.
“I know Colombia very well, but it is our obligation to study today’s Colombia, not yesterday’s Colombia. We know their qualities, but we also have players with a lot of quality and determination.”
He underlined the need for concentration across the full duration of the match, warning that any lapse could prove decisive in knockout football.
“There are no perfect teams. Colombia are not perfect, and we are not perfect. But tomorrow there is no room for mistakes. We have to do everything right for 90 minutes, or 120 minutes if necessary.”
Despite the pressure surrounding the fixture, the 73-year-old insisted his players should view the occasion as an opportunity rather than a burden.
“The pressure of a game like this is not a problem; it is a privilege. It is a privilege to be here playing against great players on the biggest stage in football.”
Queiroz concluded by urging his squad to embrace the moment while staying focused on Ghana’s objective of progressing to the Round of 16.
“We have to enjoy the game and do everything that is in our hearts and souls so the Black Stars shine tomorrow and achieve the result our fans expect.”
Ghana, who last reached the World Cup knockout stage in 2010 before their historic quarter-final run in South Africa, will be aiming to write another memorable chapter when they meet Colombia.
Kick-off is scheduled for 01:30 GMT on Saturday at Kansas City Stadium.