2027 AFCON Qualifiers: Our immediate objective demands full concentration – Black Stars coach Carlos Queiroz

Black Stars coach Carlos Queiroz has called for "absolute focus" as Ghana begin their campaign to qualify for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

The four-time African champions travel to Bouaké to face Côte d'Ivoire at the Stade de la Paix on 24 September before hosting The Gambia at the Accra Sports Stadium three days later.

Queiroz, who announced his 24-man squad for the opening qualifiers, says Ghana must concentrate on securing qualification while also laying the foundations for the 2030 World Cup.

"Hands on the present, eyes on the future. The priority is very clear: absolute focus on AFCON qualification, with our eyes set on the 2030 World Cup," the 73-year-old told Ghana FA media.

"We have an immediate objective that demands our full concentration, but we also have a greater destination ahead of us.

"This is the moment to start building the team for 2030, a team truly capable of honouring Ghana's extraordinary World Cup legacy."

Ghana are seeking a return to the AFCON after failing to qualify for the 2025 tournament in Morocco.

The Black Stars will have to cope with the absence of Tottenham midfielder Mohammed Kudus, who has withdrawn from the squad.

Prince Adu Kwabena is also expected to miss the opening games after suffering a head injury at the weekend.

After the two qualifiers, Ghana will conclude the international window with a friendly against Morocco at the Grand Stade de Tanger on 4 October.