World Cup 2026: Ghana conceded two easy goals against Croatia, says coach Carlos Queiroz

Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz admitted costly defensive errors proved decisive in his side's 2-1 defeat to Croatia, saying the Black Stars made "one critical mistake more" than their opponents in the decisive Group L clash.

Petar Sucic gave Croatia the lead with a spectacular long-range strike before Derrick Luckassen equalised in the second half. However, Nikola Vlasic headed home the winner seven minutes from time to hand Croatia all three points.

Queiroz acknowledged Croatia deserved the victory but felt his players paid heavily for avoidable mistakes.

"When you score one more goal than the opponent, that means you have the merit to win the game. It means you make at least one more mistake than the opponent," he said.

The Portuguese coach was particularly frustrated with the manner in which Ghana conceded both goals.

"We conceded two easy goals. When we concede one goal from 40 metres, we have to do better. Those are not proper goals to concede at the level of a World Championship."

Queiroz admitted Croatia controlled the opening 45 minutes but praised Ghana's response after the break.

"I think Croatia played better in the first half and controlled the game. The second half was only Ghana playing."

The Black Stars created several opportunities after the interval and restored parity through Luckassen, but were unable to capitalise on their dominance before Croatia struck again from a Luka Modric corner.

"I think what we did in the second half should not have been punished with the second goal. The draw was the fairest result."

Despite that assessment, Queiroz accepted football is ultimately decided by goals rather than performances.

"In football, there is nothing about fairness. You score more goals, you win. You score fewer goals, you lose."

The defeat meant Ghana finished third in Group L but still progressed to the Round of 32 as one of the tournament's best third-placed teams. They will now face Colombia in Kansas City.

 

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