Queiroz rallies 33 million lions as Ghana target England in World Cup Group L

Carlos Queiroz declared Ghana’s 33 million citizens a collective force to rival England’s iconic three lions as both sides prepare for a winner-takes-the-initiative Group L clash at the 2026 World Cup. Ghana enter the match on three points following a disciplined 1-0 victory over Panama, while England arrive on the same tally after a 4-2 win over Croatia that showcased Thomas Tuchel’s attacking intent but also exposed defensive frailties.

A Ghana victory would confirm their passage to the Round of 32 with a game to spare, though a draw may also prove sufficient depending on results elsewhere. England hold a superior goal difference over their opponents, with both Croatia and Panama yet to open their accounts at the foot of the group.

“We have a great match in front of us,” Queiroz told reporters. “This is what we are looking for all our lives, to be in the right environment and at the right time and to play against the best players in the world.”

The Portuguese coach, making his fifth World Cup appearance at the helm of a national side after previous stints with Portugal and Iran, believes his familiarity with English football — forged during his time as assistant to Alex Ferguson at Manchester United in the early 2000s — gives Ghana a tactical edge.

“We know how England play. They have excellent players, they have the experience of their Premier League. They have intensity but we know how we can control this,” Queiroz said. “We know they have three lions but we have 33 million lions.”

Queiroz was equally clear about his team’s priorities, stripping the occasion of any romanticism in favour of cold pragmatism. “We are in this competition for points. It is to get the points in order to qualify. That is the most important thing for us.”

Despite that measured outlook, he promised the match would leave a lasting impression. “Trust me, huge entertainment on the pitch. We belong to the entertainment business. We are going to fight, play and enjoy. I guarantee you the match will be in the memories and hearts of people when it finishes.”

England, who progressed from the top two in each group alongside the eight best third-placed sides, will be wary of a Ghana side that has shown the ability to grind out results. Queiroz’s experience on the biggest stages makes him a credible threat to Tuchel’s ambitions of a smooth passage through the group phase.