Ghanaians must accept Carlos Queiroz' defensive style - Kojo Addae Mensah

The Chief Executive Officer of Databank Ghana, Kojo Addae Mensah, believes Carlos Queiroz has surpassed expectations as Black Stars head coach but has warned that Ghana must be prepared to embrace the Portuguese trainer’s defensive approach if they want him to remain in charge.

Queiroz guided Ghana to the knockout stage of the FIFA World Cup for the first time since 2010, after securing a crucial victory over Panama and holding eventual bronze medalists England to a goalless draw during the group phase.

The experienced coach’s future with the Black Stars has been a subject of discussion following Ghana’s improved showing at the tournament, with many calling for the Ghana Football Association to extend his stay beyond his initial short-term agreement.

However, Addae Mensah believes supporters must understand that Queiroz is unlikely to abandon his tactical philosophy, which prioritises defensive organisation and results over attacking football.

Speaking on Luv FM, the Databank CEO praised the Portuguese coach’s impact but insisted his methods would remain largely unchanged.

"He [Carlos Queiroz] exceeded expectations, no doubt. But let me tell Ghanaians this: if we want to keep Carlos Queiroz, we should all accept that the way we played at the World Cup will be defensive to the hilt. He won't change that philosophy," he said.

“If Ghanaians want him, then we should be ready to see the Black Stars playing 5-4-1. In fact, sometimes he will play 5-5-0."

Addae Mensah cited Queiroz’s previous success with Egypt as an example of his results-driven approach. The Portuguese coach led the Pharaohs to the final of the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations despite failing to win a match within 90 minutes throughout the tournament.

He explained that Queiroz adjusted his tactics after suffering defeat against Nigeria, adopting a more conservative system that helped Egypt progress through the competition.

"He went and played open football against Nigeria and lost. After that, he shut shop against Guinea and Sudan and won 1-0, 1-0," he explained.

"I remember Carlos didn't win a single game in 90 minutes and still got to the final. The results are what matter. The end justifies the means."

The Databank boss believes the decision on Queiroz’s future should be based on whether Ghana prioritises winning matches or playing an attractive brand of football.

"If we want the one-goal, no-go project to get to the final of the AFCON, then that's fine. But if we're expecting free-flowing football with a 4-4-2 or 4-3-3, scoring goals for fun, then Carlos Queiroz is not the coach we want," said Addae Mensah.

Queiroz’s World Cup performance has sparked debate among Ghanaian football stakeholders, with some praising his tactical discipline while others have questioned the entertainment value of his style of play.