Head coach Carlos Queiroz has set an ambitious yet measured target for the Black Stars ahead of the FIFA World Cup, insisting his side will approach the tournament with belief, courage, and a step-by-step mentality.

Responding to questions about whether Ghana can surpass its historic quarter-final finish at the 2010 FIFA World Cup, Queiroz pointed to a winning mindset shaped by one of the most influential figures in his life, Nelson Mandela.

“I’ve had the privilege and honour to work with the most special person in my life, and they’ve taught me a lot. Nelson Mandela told me something Carlos, we either win or win,” he stated.

The experienced coach made it clear that fear will not be a factor in his approach, stressing his readiness to embrace risks in pursuit of success.

“I’m not afraid to take risks. I’m not afraid of anything at this stage in my life,” he added.

Queiroz acknowledged the competitive nature of the tournament, noting that every opponent including Ghana’s opening game opponent, Panama will enter with the same ambition to succeed.

“All the teams play to win. When we start against Panama, they will have the same wish and belief,” he said.

However, he emphasized that “Our duty is to get ready with a strong belief that we can do it, we can be better, and when we cross the line, our people will be proud of us,” he added.

Using a simple but powerful metaphor, Queiroz described his roadmap for the tournament as a gradual climb.

“When you have stairs in front of you, you have to go one by one and this will be Ghana at the World Cup. We will be a team winning the first game, then the next, then the next,” he explained.

PAH/JE