Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz believes the Black Stars will grow stronger following their defeat to Croatia as they prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup knockout stage.

Croatia’s 2-1 win in Philadelphia prevented Ghana from securing second place in Group L, but the Black Stars advanced to the Round of 32 as one of the tournament’s top third-placed teams.

Queiroz emphasized that, instead of focusing on the loss, the match offered valuable lessons for the squad ahead of their Round of 32 match against Colombia.

“The best thing about this game is what we learned from it,” Queiroz said.

“We learned a lot in terms of our evolution and our progress.”

The veteran Portuguese coach noted that the defeat provided greater insight into his squad and identified areas for improvement.

“My fourth game has given me a clear picture of the performance of some players and what we need to do differently in the next matches,” he said.

Queiroz was encouraged by Ghana’s improved second-half performance. The introduction of Abdul Fatawu Issahaku and a shift to a 4-4-2 formation gave the Black Stars momentum. Derrick Luckassen equalised after a lengthy VAR review, but Croatia secured a late winner through Nikola Vlašić.

Queiroz believes the tactical changes and the team’s response will benefit them in the knockout rounds.

The Black Stars now turn their attention to Group K winners Colombia in Kansas City, where only a win will keep their World Cup hopes alive.