Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz has issued a frank warning ahead of the Black Stars' FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 clash with Colombia, calling it one of the most demanding tests his side will face.

A difficult finish to the group stage

Ghana concluded Group L in third place following a 2-1 defeat to Croatia on Saturday. That loss ended a promising run — the Black Stars had won one and drawn one in their opening two matches of the tournament.

Colombia, by contrast, sailed through Group K at the summit, wrapping up the group phase with a 0-0 draw against Portugal in their final fixture.

Queiroz on the knockout stage

Speaking after the Croatia defeat, Queiroz was direct in setting expectations for his squad ahead of the next round.