Businessman and philanthropist Ibrahim Mahama has praised Black Stars head coach Carlos Queiroz for the remarkable job he has done since taking charge of Ghana, saying the Portuguese tactician has transformed the national team in a very short period ahead of the country’s decisive FIFA World Cup clash against Croatia.
Mahama made the remarks during a visit to Ghana’s training camp in Rhode Island on Thursday, where he joined a high-powered government delegation to encourage the players and technical staff before Saturday’s crucial Group L fixture. The visit came at an important stage of the tournament, with the Black Stars knowing that a victory over Croatia would secure qualification for the knockout stages.
The delegation was led by Ghana’s Ambassador to the United States, H.E. Victor Smith, and also included Sports and Recreation Minister Kofi Adams and Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa. The officials met the squad during training and delivered messages of support on behalf of the government and the people of Ghana as preparations intensified for the decisive encounter.
Mahama Commends Queiroz’s Immediate Impact
Speaking to the players and coaching staff, Ibrahim Mahama reserved special praise for Carlos Queiroz, acknowledging the impressive progress the team has made since the experienced Portuguese coach took charge earlier this year.
Queiroz was appointed as Ghana’s head coach in April following the departure of Otto Addo, leaving him with only a short period to prepare the Black Stars for the biggest tournament in world football.
Despite the limited preparation time, the veteran coach has quickly built a disciplined and united squad capable of competing against some of the world’s strongest teams.
Mahama admitted he has been impressed by the transformation and congratulated Queiroz for bringing the players together so effectively.
“I’m very proud because you came in at a shorter time, and you’ve been able to put the boys together. Wonderful performance,” Mahama told the Black Stars coach.
The businessman praised not only the results achieved on the pitch but also the unity and commitment shown by the players throughout the tournament.
Praise for the Entire Technical Team
Mahama also took time to acknowledge the efforts of the entire technical staff, saying he had been pleasantly surprised by the level of professionalism he witnessed during the visit.
He explained that while he initially expected to meet only the players, seeing the work being done behind the scenes gave him even greater confidence in the direction of the national team.
“I’m very happy. I thought we were just having to see players, but I’ve seen the technical team, and I’m very impressed,” he added.
His comments recognised the collective effort that has contributed to Ghana’s encouraging performances at the World Cup.
From the coaching staff and medical team to the analysts and support personnel, Mahama suggested that everyone involved deserves credit for helping the Black Stars compete at such a high level.
Encouraging Start to Ghana’s World Cup Campaign
Queiroz’s impact has been evident throughout Ghana’s opening two matches of the tournament.
The Black Stars began their World Cup campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Panama, collecting three valuable points to make a positive start in Group L.
They followed that performance with an outstanding defensive display against tournament favourites England, frustrating the Three Lions in a goalless draw that attracted praise from football experts around the world.
England dominated possession for long periods but struggled to create clear scoring opportunities against Ghana’s organised defensive structure.
The result left Ghana level on four points with England at the top of the group and firmly in control of their qualification hopes heading into the final round of fixtures.
The team’s tactical discipline, resilience, and fighting spirit have all been highlighted as key reasons for their success under Queiroz.
Special Bonus Promised for Qualification
While praising the players and coaching staff, Mahama also offered additional motivation ahead of the Croatia encounter.
The businessman revealed that he plans to personally reward the squad if they defeat Croatia and book their place in the Round of 32.
His announcement was warmly received by the players and technical team during the visit.
“Apart from the government’s bonus, I have a special bonus,” Mahama said.
“I have a much better bonus for you than the taxpayers. So please do us proud, and then you’ll be rewarded.”
Although he did not reveal the size of the reward, his promise demonstrated his continued commitment to supporting the Black Stars throughout their World Cup journey.
The pledge comes after Mahama earlier contributed significantly to Ghana’s World Cup preparations through financial support during the national fundraising campaign.
Ghana Focused on Croatia Challenge
Despite the praise and growing optimism surrounding the team, the Black Stars remain fully focused on the task ahead.
Saturday’s clash against Croatia will determine whether Ghana advances to the knockout stages for the first time since the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa.
Carlos Queiroz has repeatedly reminded his players that their work is not yet complete and has urged them to remain disciplined and concentrated.
Croatia will present another difficult challenge, but Ghana enter the match with confidence after remaining unbeaten in their opening two fixtures.
The players know that victory will guarantee qualification and could even see them finish top of Group L depending on the result of England’s match against Panama.
That possibility has added even greater significance to the encounter at Lincoln Financial Field.
Belief Growing Around the Black Stars
The atmosphere surrounding the Ghana camp has changed considerably since the tournament began.
Before the World Cup, many observers questioned whether the Black Stars could compete after suffering injuries to several key players and undergoing a late coaching change.
However, the team’s performances have exceeded expectations and restored belief among supporters across Ghana.
Players have embraced Queiroz’s tactical approach, while emerging stars and experienced leaders have combined to produce disciplined and determined displays.
The visit from Ibrahim Mahama and the government delegation reflected the growing confidence that the Black Stars can continue their impressive run in the competition.
With the backing of the nation and the promise of additional rewards for success, Ghana’s players will head into Saturday’s showdown determined to take another important step towards World Cup glory.
If they can overcome Croatia, the Black Stars will not only secure a place in the Round of 32 but also continue a remarkable turnaround under Carlos Queiroz, whose influence has already transformed the team’s fortunes in just a matter of months.
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