George Afriyie questions Black Stars’ tactical approach at 2026 World Cup

Former Ghana Football Association vice-president George Afriyie has criticized Ghana's tactical approach in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, asserting that it departed from the nation's traditional attacking identity. Carlos Queiroz, who led Ghana to the knockout stage for the first time since 2010, implemented a defensive play that resulted in a goalless draw against England and a 1-0 loss to Colombia, ultimately leading to Ghana's elimination in the Round of 32.

Afriyie, speaking on Sporty FM, questioned why the technical leadership failed to align Queiroz's defensive philosophy with Ghana's footballing tradition. He argued that a defensive-minded coach like Queiroz does not fit the Ghana Football Association's style. Afriyie rejected the notion that playing with a lone striker inherently makes a team defensive, pointing out that Ghana has previously used one striker while maintaining an attacking approach.

He emphasized that the Black Stars' squad, featuring wingers and creative players like Asamoah Gyan, Sulley Muntari, Kwadwo Asamoah, and Stephen Appiah, is capable of playing an expressive style of football. Afriyie concluded that the cautious approach adopted by Ghana could have been a missed opportunity to showcase their attacking talent and reaffirm the nation's footballing identity.