Black Stars captain Jordan Ayew has expressed full confidence in head coach Carlos Queiroz’s tactical approach ahead of Ghana’s crucial Round of 32 clash against Colombia at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Black Stars face the South American giants in Kansas City on Saturday, knowing only victory will keep their World Cup dream alive.
Speaking ahead of the knockout encounter, Ayew urged his teammates to put the group stage behind them, insisting the challenge against Colombia will require a completely different mindset.
“The Croatia game was a one-off game, so let’s take it like that. But the Colombia game is a knockout game, so it’s going to be totally different. We will have to be ready for that challenge,” Ayew said.
Ghana progressed from Group L after beating Panama, drawing with England and narrowly losing to Croatia, while Colombia advanced as Group K winners following an unbeaten group-stage campaign.
Despite Colombia entering the contest as one of the tournament’s form teams, Ayew believes the Black Stars are well prepared to cause an upset.
“Colombia are a top side and it’s going to be a difficult game, but I’m confident about the tactics the manager has told us and I think we will be ready for that challenge, so there is no problem about that,” he added.
The experienced forward’s comments underline the belief within the Ghana camp as the Black Stars seek to reach the World Cup Round of 16 for the first time since their memorable run at the 2010 tournament in South Africa.
Ghana will take on Colombia in Kansas City on Saturday, with the winner progressing to the last 16 of the competition.