Don’t underestimate Croatia, Godfred Akoto Boafo warns Black Stars face a slow, disciplined side that can frustrate and punish.
Sports journalist Godfred Akoto Boafo has cautioned Ghanaian football fans against underestimating Croatia ahead of the Black Stars’ upcoming World Cup encounter, describing the European side as a disciplined and tactically organised team capable of posing a significant challenge.
Speaking on Channel One TV’s The Point of View on Wednesday, June 24, Akoto said Croatia’s structured style of play, although not particularly fast-paced, makes them a difficult opponent to break down.
According to him, Ghana’s previous matches against England and Panama came with a heightened sense of excitement and motivation. However, he believes the clash with Croatia presents a different kind of challenge—one that will require patience, concentration, and tactical discipline.
“Croatia was always going to be the problem team,” Akoto said. “Their football is organised, but it is slow.”
He explained that Croatia’s methodical approach allows them to control games, frustrate opponents, and capitalise on mistakes, making them a dangerous side despite their less aggressive style of play.
Akoto also dismissed suggestions that Black Stars head coach, Carlos Queiroz, would adopt a more attack-minded approach for the match. He noted that the Portuguese tactician is renowned for his defensive philosophy and is unlikely to deviate significantly from it.
“We should stop expecting Carlos Queiroz to play attacking football. It won’t happen,” he stated.
Nonetheless, Akoto believes Ghana can make subtle tactical adjustments to improve its chances. He suggested that the Black Stars press higher up the pitch rather than sitting too deep, a strategy he believes would allow the team to spend more time in attacking areas and create additional scoring opportunities.
“If Ghana is slightly higher up, it means that we will get into their penalty box a lot more,” he added.
