Carlos Queiroz leaves Black Stars role after poor AFCON qualifying start

Carlos Queiroz has left his role as head coach of Ghana's Black Stars after the Ghana Football Association (GFA) confirmed the two parties had mutually agreed to terminate his contract.

The decision follows Ghana's poor start to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign, with the Black Stars losing their opening two Group C matches against Ivory Coast and The Gambia.

Ghana began their campaign with a 2-0 defeat by Ivory Coast in Bouake before surrendering a two-goal lead to lose 4-2 to The Gambia at the Accra Sports Stadium.

The back-to-back defeats increased pressure on Queiroz and his technical team, with calls growing for the Portuguese coach to be dismissed.

In a statement released by the GFA, Queiroz said both parties had agreed that ending their professional relationship was the "most appropriate course of action".

"This was not an easy decision, but both parties agreed that, under the present circumstances, ending our professional relationship was the most appropriate course of action, with the interests of Ghana, the Black Stars and Ghanaian football above everything else," Queiroz said.

The 74-year-old thanked the GFA, its president Kurt Okraku, his technical staff and the Black Stars players for their support during his time in charge.

Queiroz also urged Ghanaians to continue supporting the players despite the team's recent struggles.

"Believe in these players. Protect them. Support them," he said.

"The talent and potential are there. With unity, support and the right environment, this generation can achieve great things for Ghana."

Queiroz was appointed in April 2026 on a short-term contract to lead Ghana into the 2026 World Cup, replacing Otto Addo.

He guided the Black Stars to the knockout stage of the World Cup for the first time since 2010, leading to his retention beyond the tournament.

However, the team's disappointing start to the 2027 AFCON qualifiers has brought his tenure to an end.

Ghana are now without a point after two matches in Group C and face the prospect of missing the Africa Cup of Nations for a second successive edition.

The GFA is expected to announce details of the interim coaching arrangements in the coming days.