Carlos Queiroz has stepped down as Ghana’s head coach less than a month after returning to lead the Black Stars, following a 4-2 home defeat to The Gambia in 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying.
The Portuguese manager confirmed his departure on Thursday, saying the decision came by mutual agreement with the Ghana Football Association. “Both parties agreed that, under the present circumstances, ending our professional relationship was the most appropriate course of action,” Queiroz said.
Ghana had taken a 2-0 lead in the first half at the Accra Sports Stadium through goals from Ernest Nuamah and Felix Afena-Gyan, but the team collapsed in the second half, conceding four goals to The Gambia. The result was described by Queiroz as “a terrible day for Ghanaian football.” He accepted responsibility for the performance and apologised to the supporters.
Queiroz’s return to the Black Stars was announced on September 2, following talks between the Ghana Football Association and the country’s Ministry of Sports and Recreation. He was brought back largely due to his experience and familiarity with the squad after leading Ghana at the 2026 World Cup.
The 73-year-old’s initial contract ran from April through the World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the United States. Ghana topped their group by beating Panama and drawing with England, before losing to Croatia. Their tournament ended in the round of 32 with a narrow 1-0 loss to Colombia. Queiroz’s original mandate expired after the World Cup, but the GFA opted to extend his role to oversee the start of AFCON qualifying.
Queiroz has managed several national teams including Portugal, Iran, Colombia, Egypt, and Qatar. He also worked as an assistant to Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United.
In his farewell statement, Queiroz urged Ghanaian supporters to back the players, insisting the squad has the talent to succeed if the right environment is created. He said he leaves the role with “respect, gratitude and pride.”
The Ghana Football Association now faces the task of appointing a new head coach as the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualification campaign continues. The brief duration of Queiroz’s second spell reflects the pressure and challenges facing the Black Stars in their current rebuilding phase.
According to Yahoo Sports.
