Black Stars Technical Advisor Winfried Anton Schäfer has shed light on the crucial behind-the-scenes role he played in Ghana’s successful qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

In an exclusive interview with Medeama FM, the veteran German coach explained that his contribution went far beyond tactics and matchday instructions, focusing strongly on player welfare, communication, and unity within the squad.

Drawing from his vast coaching experience, Schäfer revealed that he immersed himself fully in the team’s daily routine to better understand the players and the environment.

“I was with the team at training, at dinner, at breakfast. I knew what we had to do and what my role was,” he said.

The former Cameroon national team coach emphasized the importance of building personal relationships across the squad — from senior figures to emerging talents.

“I spoke with Thomas Partey, I spoke with Jordan Ayew, and I also spoke with the young players. I listened to them. I didn’t just ask about football; I asked about their families and their clubs,” Schäfer disclosed.

He also highlighted the need to maintain strong collaboration with players’ clubs to ensure national team engagements did not disrupt their fitness or form.

“When players come from their clubs, you must take care of them. Club coaches want their players to return fit and not injured. That responsibility is very important,” he noted.

According to Schäfer, improvements in training conditions and matchday facilities also played a significant role in boosting player confidence and performance.

“Our training was better, our pitch conditions improved. These things are very important for players because the players are the most important people for us,” he added.

Beyond the physical and tactical elements, Schäfer pointed to the positive atmosphere within camp as a driving force behind Ghana’s qualification campaign.

“There was happiness in the camp. We talked, we laughed, we joked. The players stepped onto the pitch with confidence.

They didn’t go out afraid to lose — they went out determined to win,” he said.

He concluded by praising the entire squad, particularly those who played supporting roles.

“The players were fantastic. The bench was 100 percent committed to the team. The players outside the starting eleven were just as important,” Schäfer emphasized.

Ghana’s qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup represents a major achievement, and Schäfer’s insights reveal the strong internal structure, unity, and careful management that powered the Black Stars’ journey to the global stage.