Black Stars head coach Carlos Queiroz has expressed solidarity with families and communities affected by the devastating floods in Accra, promising that Ghana’s national team will carry their pain and resilience into its crucial World Cup encounter against Colombia.
The Portuguese coach issued the message on behalf of himself, his technical team and the Black Stars squad as preparations intensified for Ghana’s Round-of-32 match at the Kansas City Stadium.
“We will carry the people of Accra in our hearts when we walk out at Kansas City Stadium on July 3,” Queiroz said.
“Your resilience is our inspiration. We will give everything to make you proud and to bring some hope in this difficult time.”
The Ghana Football Association confirmed the statement, describing it as a message of solidarity from the Black Stars to victims of the Accra floods.
Queiroz Consoles Bereaved and Displaced Families
Queiroz extended his condolences to families who lost relatives in the disaster and offered words of encouragement to residents who were forced to leave their homes.
“To the families who have lost loved ones, those who have been displaced from their homes, and everyone affected, we are with you,” he stated.
The coach said reports and images emerging from Ghana had deeply affected the players and technical team, even as they remained thousands of kilometres away preparing for one of the most important matches of their World Cup campaign.
“The images and reports from home are heartbreaking, and even though we are here preparing for our World Cup match against Colombia, our thoughts have not left Ghana,” he said.
Parts of Accra were severely flooded following heavy rainfall, resulting in deaths, displacement and extensive damage to homes, roads, businesses and other infrastructure. Reports indicated that at least 12 people had died and thousands of residents had been displaced as emergency agencies assessed the impact of the disaster.
“Football Is Secondary”
Queiroz acknowledged that although the Black Stars had an important match ahead of them, football became less important when citizens were grieving and struggling to rebuild their lives.
“In moments like this, we are reminded that football is secondary. Ghana is one family. When Accra suffers, we all suffer,” he stressed.
His comments highlighted the emotional connection between the national team and the people it represents.
The coach suggested that the Black Stars would approach the Colombia match not only as a sporting contest but also as an opportunity to lift the spirits of a country dealing with tragedy.
For many affected residents, the immediate priorities remain shelter, food, clothing, healthcare and the restoration of damaged homes and livelihoods. Queiroz nevertheless expressed hope that a strong performance by the national team could provide a brief moment of encouragement and national unity.
Black Stars Prepare for Colombia Test
Ghana is scheduled to face Colombia in the Round of 32 at Kansas City Stadium on the evening of July 3 in the United States, corresponding to the early hours of July 4 in Ghana.
FIFA describes the fixture as the first World Cup meeting between Ghana and Colombia, with both teams competing for a place in the Round of 16.
The match represents a major test for the Black Stars, who progressed from the group stage and now face a Colombian side that produced a strong opening-round campaign.
Queiroz and his players will be seeking to deliver a disciplined and determined performance capable of extending Ghana’s stay in the tournament.
Beyond the sporting objective, the coach’s message places additional emotional significance on the encounter.
The team will enter the stadium knowing that many Ghanaians back home are recovering from losses caused by the floods.
A Message of National Unity
Queiroz’s statement reflects the traditional role of the Black Stars as a symbol of national identity and unity.
During major international tournaments, political, ethnic and religious differences are often temporarily set aside as citizens rally behind the national team.
The coach appealed to that sense of national togetherness, insisting that the suffering of residents in Accra should concern every Ghanaian.
His message also recognised the strength demonstrated by residents, emergency personnel, volunteers and organisations assisting affected communities.
By describing their resilience as an inspiration, Queiroz indicated that the Black Stars would draw motivation from the courage of those confronting the disaster.
Hope Beyond the Football Pitch
Although a football result cannot replace lost lives, homes or livelihoods, the Black Stars coach believes the team can offer encouragement through commitment, unity and a performance that makes the country proud.
Queiroz did not guarantee victory or promise a specific number of goals. Instead, he pledged that his players would give everything on the pitch and represent the country with determination.
He concluded his message with an appeal for strength and perseverance.
“Stay strong, Accra. Stay strong, Ghana. We stand with you.”
As Ghana prepares to face Colombia, attention will therefore be divided between the national team’s World Cup ambitions and efforts at home to support those affected by the floods.
For Queiroz and the Black Stars, the match will carry a purpose beyond qualification: an opportunity to honour the resilience of the victims and bring a moment of hope to the country.
Source: Kwabena Danso-Dapaah
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