World Cup: The objective has been achieved, says Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz after holding England to stalemate

Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz has said his side achieved their objective after securing a hard-earned point against England in their 2026 FIFA World Cup Group L clash at the Boston Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts.

Following an opening 1-0 victory over Panama, the Black Stars produced another disciplined display to hold the Three Lions to a goalless draw, a result that keeps both teams level on four points at the top of the group heading into the final round of fixtures.

England dominated possession for long spells but struggled to break down Ghana’s well-organised defensive structure, with the African side standing firm under sustained pressure.

Speaking after the match, Queiroz expressed satisfaction with his team’s tactical execution and fighting spirit.

“The first goal is achieved, and we qualified for the second round,” the former Egypt and Iran coach said after the game. 

“I am so proud of the way our players fought during the game and how much they stand behind the game plan. They always believed.

He also praised England’s quality, suggesting the Three Lions remain strong contenders for the title.

“My humble opinion is that England can be a candidate to win the World Cup. It is a gift for our fans. It is a gift for some of the players we lost.”

Queiroz explained Ghana’s approach as a pragmatic response to the opposition’s style of play.

“That’s the way to win when you have to defend, you defend. I cannot play samba when they play rock and roll.

“The goal was to finish the first half with the England team frustrated and no solution to beat us. That was when we started to grow up and control the game. We could score, but unfortunately, we didn’t do it. I think England could score, so a draw was a fair result.”

While Ghana had opportunities to snatch a win, he admitted the draw was a fair outcome.

“We could score, but unfortunately, we didn’t do it. I think England could score, so a draw was a fair result,” he said.

Looking ahead, Queiroz stressed that qualification remains the priority rather than style points.

“Happiness. Win is happiness, but in this moment, the win is nothing. We reached the second stage, which was the goal.”

England now turn their attention to their final group match against Panama, while Ghana face Croatia in a decisive encounter that will determine their place in the knockout rounds.