Herve Renard warns Cote d’Ivoire of tough Ghana test in 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers

Cote d’Ivoire manager Herve Renard says Ghana will provide a serious test when the two sides meet in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier on Thursday, 24 September 2026.

The Group C fixture will kick off at 19:00 GMT at the Stade de la Paix de Bouake, with pressure building ahead of a meeting between two of African football’s leading nations.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Renard acknowledged the quality of the visiting side and said Cote d’Ivoire would need to be fully focused from the start.

“This is a great African football fixture. Ghana are a good team. The match will never be easy for either side,” said the French coach.

“Against such a strong opponent, we will need maximum concentration from kick-off and must stick to our principles of play. Nothing will be given to us, but we have prepared for this match with great discipline and a firm intention to impose our rhythm at home.”

The encounter is expected to produce an intense contest in Bouake, with Cote d’Ivoire looking to make home advantage count at the beginning of their qualification campaign.

Renard’s side will now seek to turn the focus and discipline demanded by their manager into a decisive performance on the pitch as they aim to secure an important victory in Group C.