‘Most important trophy now is the next game’ – Carlos Queiroz

Ghana's head coach Carlos Queiroz has emphasized the importance of focusing on the next game as the team begins their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign. The Black Stars will kick off their Group C campaign against Côte d'Ivoire in Bouaké on Thursday, followed by a home match against The Gambia four days later. Queiroz stressed that the team must prioritize each game individually, saying, "There is always a new challenge.

For me the most important trophy at this moment is the next game, to win the next game." Ghana did not qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and hopes to avoid a similar setback as they prepare for the 2027 tournament. Their opening match will be a tough away game against Côte d'Ivoire in Bouaké, followed by a return home to face The Gambia in Accra on September 29.

Several changes have been made to the squad ahead of the opener, with injured players Mohammed Kudus and Nathaniel Adjei absent, and Thomas Partey omitted due to his hamstring issues. Alidu Seidu, Jonas Adjetey, Mohammed Fuseini, and Brandon Thomas-Asante have been called up to replace the outgoing players. Despite the squad alterations, Queiroz remains focused on the immediate task at hand, as Ghana looks to make a strong start to the 2027 AFCON qualification campaign.