Former Ghana defender Sam Johnson has exclusively told Footy-Africa.com that the vast World Cup experience of coach Carlos Queiroz could prove decisive as the Black Stars attempt to overcome a turbulent build-up and make a strong impression at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Queiroz was appointed less than two months before the tournament and has had limited time to work with his squad. The Portuguese coach has also been forced to deal with a lengthy injury list, with Mohammed Kudus, Alexander Djiku, Mohammed Salisu and Tariq Lamptey all ruled out.
The setbacks have left Ghana with a relatively inexperienced squad, with 15 players preparing for their first World Cup appearance.
The Black Stars also arrive at the tournament struggling for form, having failed to win any of their last six matches.
Jordan Ayew opens up on Black Stars captaincy ahead of 2026 World Cup
Despite the challenges, Johnson believes Queiroz’s experience on football’s biggest stage gives Ghana reason for optimism.
“Queiroz has been to several World Cups, and that experience can make a huge difference in a situation like this,” Johnson told Footy-Africa. “He has worked with different national teams and understands what it takes to compete at this level. When you have a coach who knows how to manage pressure and organise a team for major tournaments, it gives you confidence.”
“The team has shown some improvement in recent matches, even if the results have not been what everyone wanted. There is still work to do, but I believe the coach can get the players ready. The most important thing now is for Ghanaians to support the team and allow him to focus on his job.”
Ghana open their Group L campaign against Panama in Toronto on June 17, a match Johnson views as pivotal to the Black Stars’ hopes of progressing.
“The Panama game is the key match for Ghana. If we start the tournament with a victory, everything changes. The confidence grows, the pressure reduces, and the players begin to believe they can go far in the competition.”
“But if we fail to win that first game, it becomes much more difficult because the next matches are against England and Croatia. A good start is absolutely crucial for our chances.”
Semenyo credits family support behind Ghana choice ahead of World Cup dream
Ghana will then travel to Boston to face England on June 23 before concluding their group-stage campaign against Croatia in Philadelphia on June 27.
Johnson believes a positive result against Panama could provide the momentum needed for Ghana to challenge for a place in the knockout rounds despite their difficult preparations.
