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Ghana’s Sports and Recreation Minister, Kofi Adams, has officially welcomed the country’s newly appointed national team coach, Carlos Queiroz, presenting him with a traditional “fugu” outfit as a symbolic gesture ahead of his public unveiling.
The experienced Portuguese tactician, who arrived in Ghana on Wednesday, was formally introduced to the Ministry of Sports and Recreation in the presence of Kurt Okraku and other senior football administrators, including officials from the Ghana Football Association.
Queiroz has been appointed on a short-term four-month contract, taking over managerial duties of the Ghana national football team as a replacement for Otto Addo, with his immediate focus set on guiding the team through preparations for the FIFA World Cup campaign.
Speaking at the introductory ceremony, Kofi Adams explained the cultural significance of the gesture.
“If you entered your new country now [Ghana] on Wednesday, it is appropriate for the Ministry of Sports and Recreation to present you a ‘fugu’ gift and to usher you into the country and to let you know you are truly one of us,” he said.
The Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts has designated Wednesdays as National Fugu Day, making the traditional attire presentation even more symbolic of national identity and cultural welcome.
Queiroz is expected to be officially presented to the Ghanaian public at 1:00 pm at the Alisa Hotel, where further details about his mandate and immediate objectives will be outlined.
His appointment comes at a crucial time for the Black Stars, who are seeking stability following a run of four consecutive defeats under the previous technical leadership.
The veteran coach brings decades of international experience, having managed several national teams and worked in multiple World Cup tournaments.
Ghana has been drawn in Group L for the upcoming World Cup campaign, where they will face strong opposition from England national football team, Croatia national football team, and Panama national football team.
The Black Stars are aiming to progress beyond the group stage for the first time since their memorable run in 2010, and Queiroz’s appointment is seen as a key step in rebuilding the team’s competitiveness on the global stage.
