Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz has expressed confidence in the country's young players ahead of their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Côte d’Ivoire on Thursday. With several experienced players unavailable, Queiroz has handed opportunities to emerging talents. He believes this situation can accelerate their development with the senior national team. The Portuguese coach says Ghana must build a new generation to take over from the current crop of experienced players.
Queiroz made the comments at his pre-match press conference. He stated that young players will be the experienced players of the future. The 73-year-old coach believes the Black Stars have enough young talent to make a meaningful contribution against the Elephants if given the opportunity. He noted that the young players are full of enthusiasm and looking for a chance to shine and serve the national team.
Côte d’Ivoire will host Ghana at the Stade de la Paix in Bouaké. The match will be Queiroz’s first competitive fixture since beginning his second spell as Ghana coach. He previously guided the Black Stars at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The encounter against Côte d’Ivoire is a crucial platform for Ghana’s emerging talents to show they are ready to carry the Black Stars forward.
Ghana have been forced to make several changes to their squad. Experienced players including Thomas Partey, Mohammed Kudus, Antoine Semenyo, and Jordan Ayew are among those unavailable. Queiroz is confident that the youngsters will not be overawed by the occasion and can step up when called upon. He added that with the talent they have, they can give a good contribution to the team.
Côte d’Ivoire head coach Hervé Renard also expects a tight match. He believes the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Ghana will be decided by the smallest of details. Both West African giants begin their campaign with a crucial encounter. The match will be a test for both teams as they seek to qualify for the tournament.
The Black Stars will take on Côte d’Ivoire before returning home to face The Gambia in Accra on September 27. This will be another opportunity for Ghana’s young players to showcase their skills. Queiroz’s team selection and tactics will be crucial in determining the outcome of the matches.
The 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers are an important milestone for Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire. Both teams will be looking to make a strong start to their campaign. The match between the two West African giants promises to be an exciting encounter.
Key points
- Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz trusts young players for 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Côte d’Ivoire.
- Several experienced Ghana players are unavailable for the match.
- The match will be Queiroz’s first competitive fixture since beginning his second spell as Ghana coach.
