Ghana Lose 2-0 to Côte d’Ivoire in AFCON 2027 Qualifying Opener
Ghana made a disappointing start to their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign after losing 2-0 to Côte d’Ivoire at the Stade de la Paix in Bouaké.
Malick Yalcouye opened the scoring in the 44th minute with a powerful effort from outside the box, beating Lawrence Ati-Zigi at his near post after the Black Stars had struggled to contain the hosts.
Côte d’Ivoire doubled their advantage in the 58th minute when Franck Kessie converted from the penalty spot after Yalcouye was brought down by Fatawu Issahaku.
Ghana protested the decision but could not prevent the Elephants from extending their lead.
Carlos Queiroz responded with a triple substitution, bringing on Felix Afena-Gyan, Benjamin Tetteh and Augustine Boakye. Ghana showed more urgency late on, but Tetteh, Yirenkyi, Afena-Gyan and Boakye all failed to find a way past Yahia Fofana.
The defeat leaves Ghana bottom of Group C after the opening round of matches and raises concerns over their attacking output under Queiroz.
The Black Stars managed just two shots on target and will look to respond against The Gambia at the Accra Sports Stadium on September 29.
