Carlos Queiroz Sets AFCON as First Step Towards 2030 World Cup Glory

Black Stars head coach Carlos Queiroz has identified the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) as a crucial first step in Ghana’s long-term ambition to build a team capable of competing strongly at the 2030 FIFA World Cup.

The 73-year-old Portuguese coach made the remarks after the Ghana Football Association (GFA) retained him as head coach of the senior national team.

In a message to Ghanaian football fans on Facebook on Thursday, September 3, Queiroz described his continued tenure as the beginning of a “new chapter” for the Black Stars.

He said the upcoming AFCON would serve as an important platform for rebuilding and strengthening the national team ahead of the 2030 World Cup.

“The Africa Cup of Nations is much more than our next destination — it is the golden gateway to building the Black Stars that will shine and proudly compete at the 2030 FIFA World Cup,” he said.

Focus on Rebuilding

Queiroz outlined his immediate priorities as improving the team, uniting the country and restoring Ghana’s competitiveness on the international stage.

“Our ambition is clear: improve every day, unite the nation, make Ghana stronger and fight for every victory with passion, humility and pride,” he said.

The coach also praised the players, technical team and the GFA for their efforts during Ghana’s 2026 World Cup campaign.

According to Queiroz, their collective performance under difficult circumstances helped restore confidence and competitiveness to the national team.

“I am proud of what our players, staff and Federation achieved together under challenging circumstances at the 2026 World Cup final competition,” he said.

He added that the team’s “courage, discipline, and commitment” had helped restore belief in the Black Stars and rekindle what he described as the “Pride of a Nation.”

2030 World Cup Target

Queiroz described his continued role as both a privilege and a responsibility, stressing the significance of representing a country with a rich football tradition.

“Serving Ghana is far more than coaching a football team. It is a privilege, a responsibility, and a mission to honour one of Africa’s greatest football nations and its incredible and passionate football People,” he said.

With the AFCON now forming a key part of his longer-term plans, Queiroz indicated that his mandate goes beyond the immediate tournament cycle.

The 2030 FIFA World Cup has emerged as the ultimate target, with the AFCON expected to provide an important foundation for developing a stronger and more competitive Black Stars side.

“One Team. One Nation. 35 Million Hearts. One Heartbeat. The Mission Continues,” Queiroz concluded.