Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz has firmly rejected claims of a fractured relationship with Colombia’s senior stars ahead of Saturday’s FIFA World Cup Round of 32 showdown.The Portuguese tactician finds himself facing familiar opponents, having managed Colombia between 2019 and 2020.Saturday’s knockout clash will reunite him with several players he previously coached, including captain James Rodriguez and Bayern Munich winger Luis Diaz, adding another intriguing layer to the contest.Speculation over Queiroz’s departure resurfaced in the build-up to the tie, with reports in Colombian media suggesting tensions had developed between the coach and members of the squad during his tenure.However, the Black Stars boss was quick to dismiss those suggestions.”I don’t have that view that you do,” he said when asked about claims that Colombia players had disagreed with some of his decisions.Queiroz instead reflected fondly on his time in charge, highlighting the unique challenges of leading the national team during the COVID-19 pandemic.”I can say that I truly enjoyed and loved my work with the Colombian team,” he added.Queiroz guided Colombia to the quarter-finals of the 2019 Copa America before their campaign ended in a penalty shootout against Chile.His spell came to an end the following year after heavy World Cup qualifying defeats to Uruguay and Ecuador.Now leading Ghana, the experienced coach will hope his inside knowledge of Colombia helps the Black Stars spring a surprise and secure a place in the World Cup quarter-finals.
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