AFCON 2027 Qualifiers: Queiroz praises Ghana players despite Ivory Coast defeat

Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz has praised his players for their character and fighting spirit despite the Black Stars’ 2-0 defeat by Côte d’Ivoire in their opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.

The Black Stars were beaten by the Elephants at the Stade de Bouaké on Thursday, with Malick Yalcouyé opening the scoring before Franck Kessié added a second after the break.

Despite the defeat, Queiroz felt Ghana created more attacking opportunities than their hosts and posed a greater threat in the final third.

“In terms of possession, Ivory Coast was better than us; in terms of attacking, penetration and creating opportunities, we are better than Ivory Coast,” the Portuguese coach said after the match.

Queiroz accepted the result and congratulated Côte d’Ivoire for securing all three points.

“But the result, it is for Ivory Coast, congratulations,” he added.

The former Iran and Colombia coach also highlighted the determination shown by his players, particularly their response after conceding and their ability to compete despite the difficult circumstances.

“I also have to say that I am very proud, very proud of my team, very proud of my players, the way they fight, the way they play, the way they fight against adversity,” Queiroz said.

The defeat leaves Ghana without a point from their opening Group C fixture, while Côte d’Ivoire move to the top of the group with three points.

The Black Stars will have an opportunity to respond when they host Gambia at the Accra Sports Stadium on 29 September.