AFCON 2027 Qualifiers: Ivory Coast star Franck Kessié expects fierce battle against Ghana in Bouake

Côte d’Ivoire will begin their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign on Thursday, September 24, when the Elephants host Ghana’s Black Stars in a highly anticipated West African clash in Bouake.

The opening fixture brings together two of the region’s most prominent football nations, with both sides eager to make a strong start to their journey towards the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

Although Côte d’Ivoire will enjoy home advantage, captain Franck Kessié expects the encounter to be a particularly intense battle, describing the fixture against Ghana as a derby because of the close geographical ties and long-standing football rivalry between the two countries.

The Ivorian midfielder acknowledged the quality within the Ghanaian squad and believes the Black Stars will provide a stern test for the hosts when the two sides meet.

Kessié also stressed the importance of Côte d’Ivoire following the instructions of head coach Emerse Faé and his technical staff as they prepare for what promises to be a demanding opening fixture.

“It’s clear. When you play Ghana, it’s a derby. Ghana is also a great African nation, with some very, very good players. As the manager said, we’re working hard, taking on board the instructions from the manager and his staff so that we’re at our best tomorrow, right from the referee’s whistle,” Kessié said.

The former Barcelona midfielder’s comments underline the significance attached to the encounter inside the Ivorian camp, with the Elephants aware that Ghana’s quality and experience could make the opening qualifier a difficult assignment despite playing on home soil.

Côte d’Ivoire will therefore be looking to combine the support of their home crowd with a disciplined tactical performance as they attempt to take control of the contest.

For the Black Stars, the fixture represents an opportunity to begin their qualification campaign with a positive result away from home. Ghana will be expected to draw on their own experience and attacking quality as they seek to frustrate the hosts and return from Bouaké with valuable points.

The history between the two nations adds further intrigue to the encounter. Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana have developed a strong football rivalry over the years, with their meetings often producing fiercely contested matches.

Kessié will be central to Côte d’Ivoire’s efforts in midfield, where the hosts will look to establish control and prevent Ghana from dictating the tempo. His leadership will also be important as the Elephants attempt to maintain their composure in a fixture carrying considerable regional significance.

With both teams determined to open their AFCON 2027 qualifying campaigns on a winning note, the stage is set for a competitive encounter in Bouake.

Côte d’Ivoire will hope their preparation, home advantage and tactical discipline can help them overcome the Black Stars, while Ghana will be determined to spoil the hosts’ plans and begin their qualification journey with a statement result.