The Black Stars are in line to play a fifth international friendly as part of their preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, according to a report filed by Ghanasoccernet.com.
Following Ghana’s qualification for the tournament set for this summer in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the Ghana Football Association (GFA) initially scheduled four friendly matches for the team under former head coach Otto Addo.
However, Addo was dismissed after back-to-back heavy defeats in March 5-1 against Austria in Vienna and 2-1 against Germany in Stuttgart.
After an intensive search for a replacement, the GFA has appointed Carlos Queiroz on a short-term deal that will run through the World Cup, subject to review after the tournament.
The experienced Portuguese tactician, who has previously led Iran, Portugal, and Egypt at major tournaments, is expected to bring greater structure and discipline to the squad as Ghana intensifies its preparations.
Ghana’s confirmed warm-up fixtures currently include matches against Mexico and Wales in May and June respectively. However, the GFA is actively working to secure an additional fifth friendly, as officials believe the current schedule may not be sufficient for Queiroz to fully implement his tactical approach before the tournament.
Queiroz is expected to arrive in Ghana this week for his official unveiling, accompanied by five members of his technical team. As part of the formalities, he will also be introduced to the Minister for Sports, Kofi Adams.
After his unveiling, Queiroz will take charge of the team for the remaining build-up matches, beginning with the friendly against Mexico before the final preparatory clash against Wales on June 2.
Ghana will compete at their fifth World Cup appearance in Group L, opening their campaign against Panama on June 17, followed by fixtures against England on June 23 and Croatia on June 27.
Queiroz, who guided South Africa to World Cup qualification in 2002, took Portugal to the knockout stage in 2010, and managed Iran at the 2014 and 2018 editions, is expected to restore stability and improve Ghana’s fortunes on the global stage after early exits in 2014 and 2022.
