Black Stars head coach Carlos Queiroz has praised Ghana’s performance after the team held England to a hard-fought draw, describing the result as a reflection of the players’ resilience, fighting spirit and determination.
Ghana produced a disciplined display to frustrate one of the favourites of the tournament, with Queiroz insisting that the team deserved the result after battling for 90 minutes against a strong English side.
Speaking after the match, the coach said the game was not only about tactics and technical ability but also about character, concentration and the mentality of the players.
“I am extremely happy with the draw. They deserve it,” Queiroz said.
“When you put everything in the balance — the resilience, the perseverance of our players — they have been fantastic. They fought for each other during 90 minutes.”
The Portuguese coach acknowledged that England started the match strongly but said Ghana’s defensive organisation and commitment helped them contain their opponents.
“They accepted that the English team could play better at the beginning, but with full concentration, we blocked them and frustrated them,” he said.
“We finished the first 45 minutes with the English team in our pocket because they were completely frustrated in the game.”
Queiroz added that Ghana grew stronger as the match progressed, creating opportunities of their own while maintaining their defensive discipline.
“In the second half, we kept going with more determination. We kept blocking them, then we started to grow and we had our chances to score,” he said.
“At the end, I think we deserved the draw and the qualification for the second round.”
The coach, who had promised supporters an entertaining encounter before the game, said the match delivered the excitement and emotion expected from a major tournament fixture.
“I am tired. I had a lot of fun and joy,” he said.
“From the emotional point of view, everybody had their hearts in their hands during 90 minutes. This is joy. This is entertainment.”
The result has boosted Ghana’s confidence as the Black Stars continue their campaign, with the team earning praise for their organisation, determination and ability to compete against high-profile opposition.
Source :www.kumasimail.com
