Carlos Queiroz celebrated Ghana’s dramatic opening victory at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but the Black Stars coach left Toronto with serious questions about the role of VAR after claiming his side were denied a clear penalty against Panama.
Caleb Yirenkyi’s stoppage-time winner secured a 1-0 triumph for Ghana at BMO Field, handing the four-time African champions a valuable three points in Group L. Yet despite the late celebrations, Queiroz used his post-match press conference to express frustration over what he believed was a major officiating error.
The Portuguese coach argued that Ghana should have been awarded a penalty long before Yirenkyi’s decisive intervention.
“We should score one early,” Queiroz said.
“A clear penalty against Opoku. The more cameras in VAR they put in the game, the less they can see. It’s amazing.”
The incident appeared to be a turning point in the coach’s assessment of the contest. While acknowledging Panama’s quality and organisation, Queiroz insisted Ghana had earned the right to be ahead once they began to gain control of proceedings.
“How can that penalty escape from VAR?” he asked.
“It is something that I have spent probably a couple of months to start to investigate science, to understand how a penalty can escape from VAR in that moment.”
The comments added another chapter to the growing debate surrounding the use of video technology at major tournaments. FIFA introduced enhanced officiating systems for the expanded 2026 World Cup, but Queiroz suggested the increased technological support had not necessarily improved decision-making.
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His frustration over VAR was not limited to the penalty appeal. The Ghana coach also questioned some tournament regulations, including the use of hydration breaks in conditions he felt did not justify interruptions.
“As I said in the press conference, I’m not sure about this decision,” Queiroz said.
“I think probably in the future this law must be adapted to the weather conditions.”
The veteran coach stopped short of directly accusing officials of bias, but called for a thorough review of decisions made throughout the tournament once the competition concludes.
“At the end of the World Cup, we need an integrity report about what happened,” he said.
“To make a conclusion if this decision was made for marketing reasons or really to protect the health of the players.”
Despite his complaints, Queiroz acknowledged that Ghana eventually found a way to overcome a stubborn Panama side. The Black Stars improved significantly after the interval, created the better chances, and were rewarded when Yirenkyi converted Brandon Thomas-Asante’s cross in the 95th minute.
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The result leaves Ghana in a strong position ahead of a blockbuster Group L clash against England, but Queiroz’s comments ensured discussion after the match extended beyond the scoreline.
