Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz has cautioned his players to remain fully alert ahead of their crucial FIFA World Cup Group L clash against Croatia, describing their opponents as a “wounded” side capable of responding strongly after a heavy defeat to England.
Speaking ahead of Saturday’s 5 p.m. kickoff at Lincoln Financial Field, Queiroz said Croatia’s 4-2 loss to England did not reflect their true quality and warned that the result could make them even more dangerous.
“We know that they have a good team, they play good football against England,” he said.
“After I saw the game several times, I think they even deserve a better result. I think the result 4-2 was too heavy for Croatia.”
“That’s why we are full alert. We know that that result doesn’t really show the capabilities of Croatia.”
Queiroz singled out Croatia captain Luka Modrić as one of the game’s finest players in recent years, praising the team’s experience and technical strength.
Looking ahead to the decisive fixture, he described the encounter as “another battle” and stressed the need for Ghana to improve on previous performances against Panama and England.
“For us tomorrow, we only have one option. We have to come out more strong and better. That’s the only option,” he said. “Every day, every match we have to grow up.”
Queiroz insisted Ghana will not approach the match defensively despite their position in Group L, saying his team will play for victory.
“I only have one way to play the game. It is to play to win, and that is what we are going to do tomorrow,” he stated.
He added that training had focused on creating scoring opportunities, maintaining possession and improving consistency over 90 minutes.
“We just focus on one game, which is Croatia, and get results. Play good football, fight more, be better. That’s what we are going to try to do,” he said.
Queiroz concluded by stressing respect for Croatia but reaffirming Ghana’s determination to secure a positive result and top the group.
