'Our thoughts have not left Ghana' – Black Stars's coach Queiroz backs Accra flood victims

Black Stars head coach Carlos Queiroz has expressed heartfelt solidarity with victims of the devastating floods that swept through parts of Accra and other communities, assuring affected families that the national team is united with the nation despite being thousands of miles away at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States.

In a statement released on Tuesday, July 1, Queiroz said the players and technical staff have been deeply saddened by the tragic scenes emerging from Ghana and continue to keep the victims in their thoughts as they prepare for Saturday's crucial Round of 32 encounter against Colombia.

The Portuguese coach acknowledged that although the Black Stars are fully focused on their World Cup campaign, the suffering of Ghanaians affected by the floods has overshadowed preparations.

The images and reports from home are heartbreaking, and even though we are here preparing for our World Cup match against Colombia, our thoughts have not left Ghana," Queiroz said.

He extended condolences to families who lost loved ones and encouraged those who have been displaced or suffered losses to remain strong during the difficult period.

"To the families who have lost loved ones, those who have been displaced from their homes, and everyone affected—we are with you."

Queiroz stressed that national tragedies serve as a reminder that football, despite its importance, comes second to the well-being of the people.In moments like this, we are reminded that football is secondary. Ghana is one family. When Accra suffers, we all suffer."

His message comes as emergency services continue rescue, relief and recovery operations following one of the most destructive flooding incidents to hit the capital in recent years.

The Black Stars are currently preparing for a high-stakes Round of 32 clash against Colombia on Saturday after progressing from the group stage with impressive performances.

Queiroz said the team intends to dedicate its performance to Ghanaians affected by the disaster and hopes football can offer the country a measure of hope during a challenging time.

We will give everything to make you proud and to bring some hope in this difficult time."

He concluded his message with words of encouragement to the nation:

Stay strong, Accra. Stay strong, Ghana. We stand with you."

Queiroz's message follows the devastating floods that struck Accra after hours of torrential rainfall, resulting in multiple fatalities, widespread displacement and extensive destruction of homes, businesses and public infrastructure.

President John Dramani Mahama, following an aerial inspection of the affected areas, described the rainfall as one of the heaviest recorded in recent years, noting that approximately 140 millimetres of rain fell on the capital within a short period.

Emergency agencies, including the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), the Ghana Armed Forces, the Ghana National Fire Service and the Ghana Police Service, continue rescue and relief operations as government implements emergency interventions to support affected communities.

As Ghana mourns the victims and begins the recovery process, the Black Stars will carry the hopes of the nation into their knockout fixture, seeking to provide a moment of unity and inspiration on the global stage.