Carlos Queiroz’s real test begins as Ghana face Côte d’Ivoire in Bouaké

Bouaké marks the beginning of Carlos Queiroz's true challenge as he faces Ghana's first competitive test in his second spell, this time against Côte d’Ivoire in a crucial AFCON qualifier away from home. The friendly matches are behind them; now the consequences of decisions weigh heavily. Ghana are acutely aware of this reality following their disappointing 2025 AFCON qualifier campaign, where they failed to win a single game among six matches against Angola, Sudan, and Niger.

Queiroz's return aimed to bring structure and consistency to the team, a concept that bore fruit in the World Cup, where Ghana reached the knockout stage for the first time since 2010. The most significant improvement, however, was not in possession or attack numbers but in defense. Ghana played compactly, as one unit, demonstrating discipline in protecting space. This organization proved vital in the knockout stages, and it will be crucial once again in Bouaké.

Côte d’Ivoire, with their quality, can exploit a team that loses its shape, especially in transition. Therefore, Ghana's ability to maintain compactness when possession changes might prove more important than the amount of ball they control. Queiroz's philosophy will collide with the harsh reality of competitive football.

Several notable players are absent from Queiroz's roster, including Jordan Ayew, Mohammed Kudus, Antoine Semenyo, and Alidu Seidu. While this absence presents a challenge, Queiroz has already established a framework that many players understand, and newcomers can seamlessly fit into the existing structure. The challenge lies in whether the collective can compensate for the individual talents that are missing.

Kudus, specifically, is difficult to replace as his role in ball carrying, creative play, and flexibility within the lines is priceless.

On the other bench stands Hervé Renard, who knows the significance of this fixture. As the coach of Côte d’Ivoire, who won the 2015 AFCON title, Renard understands the history and the importance of this match. He has returned with a revamped team, eight new players, and knows what it takes to navigate major international tournaments.

Both coaches recognize the challenges and the need to shape new versions of their teams. They both understand that an opening defeat could complicate their road ahead, and neither side is likely to be keen on an uncontrolled, end-to-end contest. For now, patience and discipline may be the defining factors in this crucial encounter.