Black Stars head coach Carlos Queiroz says Ghana’s journey at the 2026 FIFA World Cup is only just beginning after qualifying for the knockout stage despite a 2-1 defeat to Croatia.
The Black Stars finished third in Group L but advanced to the Round of 32 as one of the tournament’s best third-placed teams, setting up a clash with Group K winners Colombia in Kansas City.
Speaking after Saturday’s defeat, Queiroz refused to dwell on the result, insisting his players should instead focus on the opportunities that lie ahead.
“Yeah, I think, as I used to say, we win or we learn. Today we learn,” the Portuguese coach said.
Queiroz believes the group stage simply provides teams with the opportunity to reach the business end of the competition, where every match becomes a do-or-die affair.
“Group stage, it is warming up for the qualification. Qualification is not a destination. Qualification is just a credit card that you receive to deserve to be in this stage of the competition,” he explained.
The former Portugal, Iran and Egypt manager stressed that Ghana must now justify their place in the knockout rounds with strong performances.
“Now we have to pay the price of having that credit card in your pocket. These kinds of games are really when the World Cup starts. Everything to the winner, nothing to the loser,” he added.
Queiroz also predicted a dramatic shift in intensity as the tournament enters the elimination phase.
“Nobody can hide anything from the first minute. Everybody must go for it and put everything into the game. That’s the real World Cup that starts next game,” he said.
The Black Stars will now prepare for a difficult encounter against Colombia, knowing victory would secure a place in the Round of 16.