Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz has pointed to defensive lapses as the key reason behind the Black Stars’ 2-1 defeat to Croatia in their final Group L fixture at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Although Ghana had already secured qualification to the knockout stage before the match, the result saw them finish third in the group with four points from three games.

Speaking after the game, Queiroz admitted his side were punished for avoidable errors, even though he felt they controlled large spells of the second half.

“Croatia scored two very easy goals, but the only thing that matters in football is that when you score, you win. They played better in the first half, but in the second half, it was only Ghana playing. They capitalised on our mistakes, with a couple of back passes where we lost control of the ball,” he said.

The Portuguese coach expressed disappointment at the manner of the goals conceded.

“The goals we conceded were too easy and not at the level of a World Cup. We cannot concede a goal from 40 metres at this level,” he added.

Queiroz also singled out Croatia captain Luka Modrić for praise, acknowledging his influence on the match.

“Luka Modrić did well as usual as the playmaker. We tried to block his decisions, but it was difficult to control him.”

Ghana will now turn their attention to the Round of 32, where they face Colombia on Saturday, July 4, at the Kansas City Stadium, with a place in the last 16 at stake.