2027 AFCONQ: Ivory Coast v Ghana preview

Ghana, the Black Stars, set to kickstart their quest for a return to the Africa Cup of Nations on Thursday, will clash with three-time champions Ivory Coast in their opening qualifier of the 2027 tournament. The match will take place at the Stade de la Paix in Bouaké, marking a daunting first assignment for newly appointed Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz, who is taking charge of his first competitive match with his new team.

Ghana's participation in the AFCON finals was marred by a bottom finish in their qualifying group last year, resulting in a three-draw, three-defeat record against Angola, Sudan, and Niger. This sets the stage for an intense encounter against Ivory Coast, who are determined to capitalize on their recent successes.

Hervé Renard, who returns to the Ivory Coast squad for a second spell following his 2015 AFCON title victory in Equatorial Guinea, will be at the helm. His earlier tenure ended with Ivory Coast securing their second continental crown, followed by a third AFCON title in 2023 under Emerse Fae. Fae's tenure saw the Elephants reach the knockout stage of the most recent World Cup, but his contract was not renewed, paving the way for Renard's return to the Ivory Coast team.

As Queiroz takes on his demanding debut, he faces the challenge of preparing Ghana to face one of Africa’s leading sides, Ghana, without several crucial players. Kudus, Ayew, Semenyo, Seidu, and Adu are among the notable absentees for Ghana. To compensate for their losses, Queiroz has brought in experienced defender Alexander Djiku, alongside Nathaniel Adjei, Ibrahim Sulemana, Felix Afena-Gyan, and Ibrahim Osman.

Ivory Coast will also be without key attacking players like Evann Guessand and Omar Diakite, as well as injured winger Amad Diallo. Despite these departures, Renard can rely on a formidable core comprising goalkeeper Yahia Fofana, defender Ousmane Diomande, and captain Franck Kessie. With the absent Sébastien Haller, Yan Diomande is expected to shoulder significant attacking responsibilities.

For Ghana, Benjamin Asare is set to start in goal, with Djiku, Adjetey, and Mensah forming the defensive line. Brandon Thomas-Asante may lead the attack, while Ernest Nuamah and Abdul Fatawu Issahaku provide support from the wide areas. Recent form also highlights Ivory Coast's strong performance, as they have secured three wins out of their last five matches, while Ghana enters the match on a two-match losing streak.