AFCON 2027: Carlos Queiroz backs confident Ghana players to perform against Côte d’Ivoire

Black Stars head coach Carlos Queiroz has backed his squad to deliver a strong performance against Côte d’Ivoire despite several withdrawals ahead of Thursday’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.

Ghana begin their qualification campaign at the Bouake Stadium in a difficult West African derby, with Queiroz facing his first competitive test since taking charge of the national team.

The Black Stars will be looking to make a positive start after failing to qualify for the 2025 AFCON, having finished bottom of their qualifying group with three defeats and three draws.

Despite the absences, Queiroz believes the players called up are capable of handling the challenge and insists he has confidence in those available.

“So the most important players in our team are the ones that are here today. We are a strong team. We have a lot of potential. We have full confidence that the players we have called are ready to perform,” Queiroz said.

The Portuguese coach also highlighted the quality and enthusiasm within his squad as Ghana prepare to face an Ivorian side led by returning coach Herve Renard.

“What is possible is, and what we need to be sure of, is that we brought here talented players, full of enthusiasm and great talents of Ghana,” he added.

Côte d’Ivoire will provide a stern opening test, having won the 2023 AFCON on home soil and reached the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Queiroz will hope his players translate his confidence into a positive result in Bouake.