South African coach Roger De Sa reveals how he earned Ghana assistant coaching role

Newly appointed Black Stars assistant coach Roger de Sa has revealed the circumstances behind the late-night call that led to his inclusion in Ghana’s technical team for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

De Sa, who was confirmed in April as part of Ghana’s backroom staff for the tournament in North America, will serve as assistant to head coach Carlos Queiroz—reuniting with the Portuguese tactician in yet another major international assignment.

Speaking to SportsBoom.co.za, the 61-year-old detailed how the opportunity unfolded in the early hours of the morning.

“I got the news overnight. I received a message from Carlos Queiroz basically asking me if I was up for a big challenge again, and he asked me to call him as soon as I woke up,” De Sa told SportsBoom.co.za.

“He basically told me that, look, the Ghana national team was looking for his services, and obviously, he would require me to go and assist him, and it was not a very difficult decision to make and accept.”

De Sa and Queiroz share a long-standing professional relationship, having worked together across several national teams, including South Africa, Egypt, Portugal and Iran.

The South African coach also disclosed that his wife was the first person he informed after receiving the message, noting that she has grown accustomed to his frequent international assignments.

“Then, of course, having read the message very early hours of the morning, the first person I told was my wife, just to let her know that there would be a strong possibility that this would happen and that it was another World Cup and my seventh national team. I think she’s become pretty accustomed to this.

“It’s always a great honour to be part of the fantastic national team in the World Cup once again. It is a privilege, and I enjoy every day and make the most of it.”

Ghana, making their fifth World Cup appearance, have been drawn in Group I alongside Panama, England and Croatia. The Black Stars will begin their campaign against Panama on June 17, before taking on England on June 23 and concluding the group stage against Croatia on June 27.

Ahead of the tournament, Queiroz’s side will step up preparations with friendly matches against Mexico later this month and Wales on June 2.