Ghana’s Black Stars have made a disappointing start to their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign after suffering a 2-0 defeat to Côte d’Ivoire in Bouaké on Thursday night.
Goals from Malick Yalcouye and Franck Kessié handed the Ivorians all three points and left Ghana at the bottom of Group C ahead of the clash between The Gambia and Somalia.
The Black Stars went into the encounter hoping to begin their campaign on a positive note as they seek a return to the continental tournament after missing the previous edition.
However, Carlos Queiroz’s side struggled to impose themselves on the game, with the hosts controlling much of the contest.
Ivorians Take Control
Ghana created little in the opening stages, although Ernest Nuamah nearly produced a moment of brilliance in the 20th minute when he spotted the Ivorian goalkeeper off his line. His long-range attempt, however, went wide.
Côte d’Ivoire eventually broke the deadlock in the 29th minute when Yalcouye fired a powerful effort from outside the penalty area into the bottom corner.
The hosts doubled their advantage after the break when Kessié converted a penalty in the 56th minute following a challenge involving Abdul Fatawu Issahaku. Ghana’s players protested the decision, but the spot kick stood.
Queiroz responded by introducing Felix Afena-Gyan, Benjamin Tetteh and Augustine Boakye in the 64th minute as Ghana searched for a route back into the contest.
The substitutions brought greater attacking urgency, but Ghana had to wait until close to the 80th minute to register efforts on target.
The Black Stars entered the match without several key players, including captain Jordan Ayew, Antoine Semenyo, Mohammed Kudus and Thomas Partey, who were unavailable through injuries and other fitness concerns.
Ghana will now turn its attention to its second Group C qualifier against The Gambia at the Accra Sports Stadium on Tuesday, September 29.
