Former Ghana Football Association Vice President Fred Pappoe has called on Ghanaians to fully support newly appointed Black Stars head coach Carlos Queiroz as preparations intensify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Portuguese tactician has been handed a short-term contract to lead Ghana at the tournament, replacing Otto Addo following his departure after a difficult run of results, including defeats to Austria national football team and Germany national football team in the March international window.
Addo’s exit also followed Ghana’s failure to secure qualification for AFCON 2025, despite initially retaining the backing of the football authorities.
Speaking on Adom FM, Pappoe emphasized the importance of unity and collective backing for Queiroz given the limited time before the World Cup.
“We have limited time for the World Cup, and if you look into the list available and you check our pocket, I believe we have to rally behind whoever has been appointed,” he said.
He added that Queiroz’s extensive experience, including four World Cup appearances, should be seen as a major advantage rather than focusing on criticism.
“We were all clamouring for a respected coach, and someone who can transform the team has been chosen, so we must support him,” Pappoe stated.
Queiroz is expected to meet the Black Stars squad next month during a friendly against Mexico, followed by another preparatory match against Wales on June 2.
Ghana, heading to its fifth World Cup appearance, has been drawn in Group L alongside Panama, England, and Croatia.
With past group-stage exits in 2014 and 2022 still fresh in memory, Queiroz faces the task of guiding the Black Stars to a stronger and more competitive showing on the global stage.
