Ghana Parts Ways with Head Coach Carlos Queiroz After Winless Start to AFCON 2027 Qualifiers

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has announced the departure of Carlos Queiroz as head coach of the Black Stars, effective Thursday, October 1. The decision came after a meeting between the GFA and the Portuguese manager, following Ghana's opening two matches in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. Ghana suffered consecutive defeats to Côte d'Ivoire and Gambia, leaving the national team at the bottom of their qualifying group. The poor start prompted the GFA and Queiroz to mutually agree to end their professional relationship. In an official statement, Queiroz confirmed the mutual termination of his service agreement. "Following discussions held in a spirit of mutual respect, the Ghana Football Association and I have mutually agreed to terminate the Service Agreement governing my role as Head Coach of the Ghana National Team, the Black Stars," he said. "This was not an easy decision, but both parties agreed that, under the present circumstances, ending our professional relationship was the most appropriate course of action, with the interests of Ghana, the Black Stars and Ghanaian football above everything else." Queiroz expressed gratitude to the GFA and its President for the opportunity to lead the team. "It has been an honour to serve Ghana and the Black Stars. I sincerely thank the Ghana Football Association and particularly its President for their trust and for the opportunity to lead such a proud football nation," he stated. He noted that he had arrived with the goal of building a stronger future for the Black Stars and supporting the development of the country's talent. "Despite our commitment and efforts, the necessary conditions were not fully established, and our recent performance added to the decision to bring this journey to an end," he added. "I leave with respect, gratitude, and pride." Queiroz also thanked his technical staff and those who supported the team, particularly since the start of preparations for the 2026 World Cup. He paid special tribute to the players. "Above all, I pay tribute to the players of the Black Stars. Thank you to all of them who represented Ghana with courage, commitment, and pride. You fought for your country and carried the hopes of millions," he said. "Believe in these players. Protect them. Support them. The talent and potential are there. With unity, support, and the right environment, this generation can achieve great things for Ghana." Addressing the fans, Queiroz expressed appreciation for their passion and support. "To the Ghanaian people and all Black Stars supporters, thank you for your passion, support, and warmth. I will always carry Ghana with me with respect and affection," he said. "Ghana comes first. The Black Stars come first. Ghanaian football comes first. Thank you, Ghana. To the Future." The GFA has not yet announced a replacement for Queiroz. Ghana now faces an uphill battle to recover in the 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign, with the team currently at the foot of the group after two matches.