Carlos Queiroz appointment has paid off – Nana Oduro Sarfo defends Black Stars coach

Ghana Football Association (GFA) Executive Council member Nana Oduro Sarfo has defended the appointment of Carlos Queiroz as head coach of the Black Stars, arguing that the Portuguese trainer proved his worth despite initial doubts surrounding his late arrival.

Queiroz took charge of Ghana on a short-term deal after Otto Addo was dismissed less than three months before the 2026 FIFA World Cup, a decision that attracted criticism due to the limited preparation time available ahead of the tournament.

However, the experienced 73-year-old coach successfully guided the Black Stars to the knockout stage of the World Cup for the first time since Ghana’s historic quarter-final appearance at the 2010 tournament in South Africa.

Speaking on Asempa FM, Oduro Sarfo insisted that the coaching change achieved its intended purpose, highlighting the Portuguese coach’s influence on the team and his relationship with the players.

"The decision to sack Otto Addo and bring in Carlos Queiroz has paid off. If you look at Queiroz's relationship with the players, the respect the players give him is different," he told Asempa FM's Ultimate Sports Show.

The GFA Executive Council member praised Ghana’s performances at the World Cup, particularly the team’s tactical organisation and discipline under Queiroz.

He pointed to the Black Stars’ matches against Panama and England as clear examples of the coach’s impact, stating that Ghana’s defensive structure and game plan frustrated their opponents.

"At the World Cup, we played four games, and we could all see the difference. We saw the game plan against Panama, and I believe that England will be sad for not being able to score against Ghana."

He further acknowledged the challenges Queiroz faced after taking over the team, explaining that the coach had very little time to introduce his philosophy before the global showpiece.

"Carlos Queiroz had no option but to get a game plan because there was no time when he took over," Oduro Sarfo added.

Meanwhile, uncertainty continues to surround Queiroz’s future as Black Stars coach, with discussions expected to determine whether he will remain in charge beyond his initial contract.

Ghana’s next major assignment will be the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, where the Black Stars have been placed in Group C alongside Gambia, Ivory Coast and Somalia. The qualification campaign is scheduled to begin in September.