Carlos Queiroz Eyes Winning Start As Ghana Prepare For Panama Test

Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz has expressed confidence ahead of the Black Stars’ opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting his side is ready to make a strong start against Panama.

Naija News reports that the four-time African champions will begin their Group L campaign at Toronto Stadium on Thursday morning, with Queiroz backing his players to rise to the occasion on football’s biggest stage.

Speaking before the encounter, the experienced tactician said Ghana had done their homework and was prepared to deal with the threat posed by the Central Americans.

“We’re strong and we’ll showcase our strengths in the game,” Queiroz said ahead of the game.

“Panama is a well-organised team and well-organised with high regard because they are competitive. We have good solutions to their strengths and will try to expose the weaknesses they have.”

The World Cup presents another major challenge in a coaching career for Queiroz that has spanned decades across different continents and competitions. The Portuguese believes the tournament offers a chance to put his accumulated experience into practice.

“I learned quite a bit from coaches, from players, and I believe that this is now an opportunity for me to consider and really put together everything that I’ve worked for, every decision I’ve made,” added Queiroz.

“I hope God gives me the inspiration to make the right decisions, to use my experience and everything that I’ve learned in my life so that I can take the right decisions at the right time.”

The Black Stars received a rousing welcome on arrival in Toronto, with supporters turning out in large numbers to greet the squad. The scenes reflected the high expectations surrounding Ghana as they seek to make an impact at the tournament.

Queiroz believes that backing from the stands could play a decisive role when his players step onto the pitch against Panama.

“I hope that during the game we will hear the drums of Ghana for 90 minutes and let them accelerate the beat of our hearts,” he added.