​”Ghana’s real World Cup test starts with Colombia” — Carlos Queiroz

Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz has insisted that the Black Stars will face their real test in the 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign after securing a place in the Round of 32.

Ghana progressed to the knockout stages by placing third, which was enough to secure them qualification. They face South American outfit Colombia, who emerged as winners of Group K.

The astute Portuguese tactician believes the knockout stages represent the beginning of the real test. Colombia stands in the way of the Black Stars, and Queiroz’s charges will be hoping to subdue them.

“I have just told my players that the real World Cup starts now. The group stage was only the qualification. From this point, every match is a final,” Queiroz said after Ghana booked their place in the knockout stage.

The veteran tactician praised Colombia’s quality. However, he is confident that Ghana will be ready and prepared for the task after following his side’s output against Croatia.

“We know Colombia are a strong team, but we will prepare well. Every mistake becomes more costly at this stage, so we must improve and be ready,” he added.

The Black Stars progressed despite a 2-1 defeat to Croatia in their final Group L fixture. They had earlier beaten Panama 1-0 before securing a priceless 0-0 draw with England.

Ghana will battle Colombia in the Round of 32 on Friday, 3 July, in Kansas City, with a place in the last 16 at stake.