Côte d'Ivoire head coach Hervé Renard has warned his players against complacency ahead of their opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Ghana.
The Elephants begin their qualifying campaign against the Black Stars, with Renard insisting the contest between two of the continent's biggest football nations will be decided by fine margins.
Ghana travel to Bouaké without several key players, including captain Jordan Ayew, Mohammed Kudus and Antoine Semenyo, but the Frenchman believes those absences should not alter his team's approach.
"When you have a match between two big teams, it will be played on details," Renard said.
"But we have enough character to approach it. It is not enough to say it; it will have to be shown on the pitch."
Renard also urged his side to remain focused on the bigger picture, reminding his players that qualification will be determined over six matches rather than a single result.
"There are six matches to be played," he added.
"Sometimes we miss the first step and pass the others. You have to be humble," he added.
Kick-off is scheduled at 19:00 GMT at the Stade de la Paix in Bouaké.
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