2027 AFCONQ: I am proud of my team despite loss to Ivory Coast – Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz

Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz has praised his players for their effort and character despite the Black Stars beginning their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a 2-0 defeat by Côte d’Ivoire.

Goals from Malick Yalcouyé and Franck Kessié in either half secured victory for the Elephants at the Stade de Bouaké on Thursday.

Despite the defeat, Queiroz believes Ghana created more attacking opportunities 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, while congratulating Côte d’Ivoire for their victory.

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

The Ghana coach was particularly pleased with the way his players responded after falling behind, highlighting their determination to continue competing 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.

Ghana are seeking a return to the AFCON after missing out on the 2025 tournament in Morocco.