Newly appointed Black Stars head coach Carlos Queiroz has arrived in Ghana to a thunderous welcome, as several enthusiastic supporters turned out at the airport to greet the Portuguese tactician.

Members of the National Supporters’ Union gathered in large numbers, creating a vibrant and electric atmosphere with drumming, singing, and traditional jama. Chants of “Queiroz! Queiroz!” filled the air as the 73-year-old stepped off the plane, with fans waving Ghanaian flags and dancing in celebration. The scene underscored the high hopes resting on the veteran coach’s shoulders.

Queiroz replaces Otto Addo, who was relieved of his duties following back-to-back friendly defeats to Germany and Austria, as well as the team’s failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. The Ghana Football Association moved quickly to appoint Queiroz, citing his vast experience on the international stage.

The new coach has described his role as a “mission”. With the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicking off on June 11, his immediate tasks include tightening Ghana’s porous defence, selecting a final squad from a large pool of players, and preparing the team for crucial friendlies against Mexico and Wales on June 2.

Ghana have been drawn in Group L alongside England, Croatia, and Panama, with their opening match scheduled for June 17.

Queiroz brings a remarkable World Cup pedigree. He has led four different nations to the finals: South Africa in 2002, Portugal in 2010, Iran in 2014, 2018, and 2022, and now Ghana in 2026.

This will be his fifth consecutive World Cup as a coach. He is widely respected for his tactical discipline and ability to organise teams on the biggest stage.

After the airport celebrations, Queiroz is expected to hold his first press conference in the coming days before officially taking charge of training sessions. For now, the excitement is palpable as Ghanaian fans hope his experience can guide the Black Stars to their best-ever World Cup performance.

Source: Ghanasoccernet