Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz has defended his decision to speak out against the controversial penalty awarded to Côte d’Ivoire, insisting it is his responsibility to protect the Black Stars and their interests.
The experienced Portuguese coach expressed his frustration with the officiating after Ghana’s AFCON 2027 qualifier, saying he could not remain silent when he believed an error had been made.
Queiroz stressed that, as head coach, he has a duty to stand up for his players and the nation whenever he feels his team has been treated unfairly.
“I have a duty to defend this team. I have the right to say when there is a mistake,” Queiroz said.
He also admitted he hopes his comments will not lead to disciplinary action from the Confederation of African Football (CAF), maintaining that his remarks were made solely to protect Ghana.
“I hope CAF doesn’t punish me for expressing my feelings and defending Ghana. I have to defend Ghana and my players against any team we face,” he added.
Queiroz’s comments came in the aftermath of Ghana’s defeat to Côte d’Ivoire, with the Black Stars coach standing firmly behind his players while questioning the contentious penalty decision that proved decisive in the match.
