World Cup 2026: Carlos Queiroz explains why Croatia defeat will make Ghana stronger

Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz believes Saturday's defeat to Croatia could prove beneficial as the Black Stars prepare for the knockout phase of the FIFA World Cup.

Croatia's 2-1 victory in Philadelphia denied Ghana the chance to finish second in Group L, but the Black Stars still progressed to the Round of 32 as one of the tournament's best third-placed teams.

For Queiroz, the biggest positive from the game was not the result but the lessons his players can take into their meeting with Colombia.

"The best thing of this game is what we learned from the game," he said.

"We learned a lot of things in terms of our evolution, our progress."

The former Iran and Egypt coach said the match gave him valuable insight into his squad as he continues to shape the team following his appointment earlier this year.

"My fourth game gave me a clear picture about the performance of some players and what to do differently in the next coming games."

Queiroz also pointed to Ghana's improved display after the break, when tactical adjustments helped his side wrestle control from Croatia.

The introduction of Abdul Fatawu and a switch to a 4-4-2 system injected fresh energy into Ghana's attack, with Derrick Luckassen eventually heading home the equaliser after a lengthy VAR review.

Although Nikola Vlasic's late winner ultimately gave Croatia all three points, Queiroz believes the second-half response offered encouragement ahead of the knockout stage.

The Portuguese tactician has repeatedly stressed that building a competitive team requires patience and learning from difficult moments rather than reacting emotionally to individual defeats.

His immediate focus now turns to Colombia, who topped Group K after an unbeaten group campaign.

With the knockout rounds leaving no margin for error, Queiroz is expected to use the tactical lessons from the Croatia match as Ghana seek a place in the last 16.

The Black Stars face the South Americans in Kansas City knowing only victory will keep their World Cup hopes alive.

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