All our best available resources played the match – Carlos Queiroz defends his team selection

The defeat at the Accra Sports Stadium on Tuesday leaves Ghana without a point from their opening two Group C matches and under growing pressure to rescue their qualifying campaign.

Ghana appeared to be on course for a much-needed victory after taking a 2-0 lead, but The Gambia produced a remarkable second-half comeback to turn the game around and claim all three points.

Queiroz’s selection decisions came under scrutiny after the collapse, but the Portuguese coach insisted he had picked the strongest squad available to him.

“We have the best players available to play this game, inside the pitch and outside the pitch, and when some of our players are not on fresh legs, we have to make decisions,” he said after the match.

Queiroz also pointed to the contribution of his second-half substitutes Ibrahim and Augustine, saying both players helped Ghana move forward after coming on.

“I think Ibrahim came in very well into the game; he had a good performance in the second half. He brought the team forward,” he said.

“I think Augustine brought the team forward as well. But unfortunately, we were not able to score.”

The coach then challenged those questioning his selection to offer alternatives.

“All our best available resources played the match. If you want to tell me another player that you suggest to come in, I will appreciate that,” he said.

The defeat is Ghana’s second in a matter of days, following a 2-0 loss to Côte d’Ivoire in Bouaké in their opening qualifier.

After taking control against The Gambia, the Black Stars were unable to protect their advantage as their opponents found a way back into the game.

The result leaves Ghana with a difficult task ahead if they are to qualify for the 2027 tournament.

The four-time African champions will have an opportunity to get their campaign back on track in October when they face Somalia in a double-header at the Accra Sports Stadium.

Ghana missed the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, ending a long run of appearances at the continental tournament.

For Queiroz and his players, the October fixtures now take on added importance as they attempt to revive their qualification hopes.