Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz has challenged his players to embrace hardship and show unwavering determination as they gear up for a blockbuster FIFA World Cup Group L encounter against England.
The Black Stars arrive at the fixture buoyed by a dramatic opening-day triumph over Panama, but Queiroz believes an even greater examination awaits his side against the Three Lions.
Ghana secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory in Toronto on Wednesday night, surviving sustained pressure before delivering a decisive blow in stoppage time. Just when the contest appeared set to end level, substitute Brandon Thomas-Asante ignited a lightning-fast counterattack and threaded a precise pass into the path of Caleb Yirenkyi, who calmly finished to hand the West Africans all three points.
The late winner capped a gritty display from Ghana, who were forced to dig deep against a Panama team that dominated large portions of the contest. Despite spending long spells on the back foot, the Black Stars remained disciplined and patient before seizing their moment when it mattered most.
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With England next on the horizon following their entertaining 4-2 victory over Croatia, Queiroz has warned his players that success at the World Cup comes at a significant cost and will require maximum commitment.
“To suffer and play. We have to suffer; there is no other way. We must be ready to make sacrifices. You have to be ready to pay the price because a win in this World Cup is very expensive. But the boys are ready to pay that price. Very expensive,” he said.
The Portuguese tactician believes the resilience shown against Panama provides a solid foundation for the challenges ahead, but insists his side must be prepared to raise their level once again against one of the tournament favourites.
Victory in their opening match has handed Ghana an ideal start to their campaign and strengthened their position in Group L. Another positive result against England would significantly boost their hopes of reaching the knockout rounds and underline their credentials on the global stage.
As anticipation builds for the highly anticipated showdown, the Black Stars know that talent alone may not be enough. According to Queiroz, courage, endurance, and a willingness to suffer for the cause could prove just as important in their pursuit of World Cup success.
