With the World Cup now just days away, Ghana’s preparations have taken a different turn. The Black Stars will head into the tournament without a final friendly match, forcing new coach Carlos Queiroz to rely on the training ground rather than another game to fine-tune his squad.
The Ghana Football Association had hoped to arrange one final test after Ghana’s draw against Wales in Cardiff on June 2. Discussions were held with Jamaica and Honduras over a potential behind-closed-doors encounter, but the plans never materialised.
According to GFA Communications Director Henry Asante Twum, the association explored every available option. “We succeeded in securing the venue, but the opponents did not give us positive feedback,” he said in an interview.
The failure to secure another fixture means Queiroz’s evaluation period has effectively ended. With Ghana set to face Panama on June 17 before difficult Group L clashes against England and Croatia, every training session now carries added importance.
“At this moment, it does not look likely. The coach wants us to focus on training for now,” Asante Twum added. The decision reflects the reality of international football, where logistics and timing often shape preparations as much as tactics.
For Queiroz, who has described the Black Stars job as the biggest challenge of his coaching career, the focus now turns to building cohesion. The experienced Portuguese coach has had limited time to work with the squad, making every minute on the training pitch valuable.
Away from tactical preparations, the GFA has also moved to protect the team’s integrity ahead of football’s biggest tournament. The association’s Integrity Unit conducted a mandatory briefing for players and officials, reinforcing FIFA’s strict stance against match manipulation and betting-related offences.
The session educated players on how match-fixers operate and how suspicious approaches can occur through direct messages, third parties, or financial incentives. Team members were also reminded about the dangers of sharing sensitive information such as injuries, team selection, and tactical plans.
The timing of the briefing highlights the increasing importance of safeguarding the game. With the World Cup attracting global attention and massive betting activity, football authorities are determined to ensure players remain alert to potential threats.
