Black Stars head coach Carlos Queiroz has expressed confidence in Ghana's final squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, describing the selection process as extensive and thorough.

Speaking ahead of Ghana's international friendly against Wales, the Portuguese coach said the 26-man squad was the result of weeks of observation, analysis and consultations with players' clubs and support teams.

"It was a long, intensive process. Full of detail. Weeks, day and night, of observation, analysis, conversations with club coaches, and consultations with everyone around our players," Queiroz said.

According to him, the coaching staff remains fully convinced that the selected players are the best group available to represent Ghana at the tournament.

The Black Stars coach also revealed that the team will travel with an additional goalkeeper outside the official FIFA squad list as a precautionary measure.

Queiroz explained that the decision was aimed at safeguarding the team against any unforeseen goalkeeping emergencies during the tournament while also supporting the development of a promising young goalkeeper.

"The goalkeeper department in a short tournament is very sensitive. If we need to replace a goalkeeper and call one who isn't ready, it's almost impossible. This player is part of our development programme and is ready if needed," he said.

He noted that similar arrangements have been adopted by other national teams and that he had used the same approach at previous World Cups.

On the absence of defender Alexander Djiku, Queiroz described the injury suffered by the experienced centre-back during his club's cup final as a major setback.

"It was a very difficult decision. We'll miss him. He's a great guy and a great professional," he said.

However, he expressed confidence in replacement Derrick Luckassen, saying the defender had been closely monitored and was prepared for the opportunity.

"When we knew about the injury, we went to our list. Luckassen was ready. I know he'll be committed, dedicated and will perform for the national team," Queiroz added.

The coach also highlighted the challenges his technical team faced in preparing for the World Cup due to the late arrival of players from their clubs.

According to him, more than half of the squad only joined camp after completing club commitments and taking mandatory rest periods.

"Today, the day before the game, is the first time we have the team together," he said, describing the situation as an unusual challenge ahead of a World Cup warm-up match.

Despite the limited preparation time, Queiroz stressed that his main objective has been to build team chemistry and collective responsibility rather than relying on individual talent.

"It's not about me. It's about the shirt and Ghana," he said.

He urged players to embrace a team-first mentality, insisting that success at the World Cup would depend on unity and discipline.

"Alone, you can be fast, you can arrive first. But if you want to become a champion, you do it together," he stated.

Addressing expectations ahead of the tournament, Queiroz called for optimism while reminding supporters of the realities of competing at the highest level.

"My message is positive — a message of hope. We dream of success at this World Cup and bringing joy to the people," he said.

At the same time, he noted that Ghana would be competing against some of the best teams in the world and that football's unpredictability must be acknowledged.

In a final message to Ghanaians, the Black Stars coach urged supporters to stand behind the team and trust the players selected for the tournament.

"Enjoy it. Be proud of your team. We're going to give our best," Queiroz said.

He revealed that he had conducted individual interviews with all the players and was impressed by their commitment to representing Ghana.

"I was touched by the feelings they expressed about playing for the Black Stars. They have great respect for the nation and the people," he said.

Queiroz assured supporters that the team would approach every match with a winning mentality and a determination to make Ghanaians proud at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.