Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz believes the Black Stars are only beginning to show their potential after opening their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a hard-fought victory over Panama.
The four-time African champions kicked off their Group L journey with a 1-0 win, although they were made to work until the dying stages before finding the breakthrough.
With the contest seemingly heading for a stalemate, Caleb Yirenkyi emerged as the hero, converting Brandon Thomas-Asante’s delivery late in the match to hand Ghana a valuable three points and a winning start to the tournament.
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While pleased with the result, Queiroz stressed that the performance reflected a team still adapting to new tactical ideas and developing stronger chemistry on the pitch.
“We are growing as a team,” he said. “We are playing a different system, and our attacking methods are built around the profile of our players. We want vertical football and full-speed action. Step by step, the players will improve and adjust to each other.”
The Portuguese tactician has introduced a fresh approach since taking charge, aiming to maximize the qualities within his squad through a fast-paced and direct style of play. He remains convinced that greater understanding among the players will lead to improved displays as the competition progresses.
Ghana currently occupy second place in Group L behind England, who began their campaign with an entertaining 4-2 victory over Croatia.
Attention now shifts to a blockbuster showdown against the Three Lions at Gillette Stadium on June 23, a fixture that could prove decisive in shaping the group standings. The Black Stars will then wrap up their first-round schedule with a meeting against Croatia on June 27.
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Having already collected three crucial points, Ghana are well positioned in their quest to reach the World Cup knockout rounds for the first time since their historic quarter-final appearance at the 2010 tournament in South Africa.
