2027 AFCONQ: Carlos Queiroz explains player selection criteria ahead of Ivory Coast and Gambia ties

Ghana's national football team coach Carlos Queiroz has emphasized the importance of full concentration as his side embarks on the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign. The Black Stars are set to face Côte d’Ivoire in their opening match on September 24 at Bouaké, followed by a home game against The Gambia at the Accra Sports Stadium three days later.

Queiroz, 73, made these remarks after unveiling his 24-man squad for the Group C matches, emphasizing that the primary goal is the immediate qualification for the 2027 AFCON tournament, with a long-term vision of competing in the 2030 World Cup. "Our priority is crystal clear: absolute focus on AFCON qualification, while keeping our eyes on the 2030 World Cup," Queiroz told Ghana FA media.

The coach stressed that the two upcoming qualifiers serve as a platform to build a team capable of honoring Ghana's rich World Cup legacy. However, the team will be without Mohammed Kudus, who has withdrawn from the squad, and Prince Adu Kwabena, who is expected to miss the games due to a head injury. Following these matches, Ghana will conclude their international window with a friendly against Morocco at the Grand Stade de Tanger on October 4.

With three games ahead of him, Queiroz will use these fixtures to assess his squad and begin preparations for both the AFCON objective and the team's future development.