2027 AFCON Qualifiers: Carlos Queiroz praises Ghana players despite Ivory Coast defeat

Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz has praised his players for their performance despite the Black Stars' 2-0 defeat by Côte d'Ivoire in their opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.

The Black Stars were beaten by the Elephants at the Stade de Bouaké on Thursday, with Malick Yalcouyé and Franck Kessié scoring in either half to secure victory for the hosts.

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 and congratulated Côte d'Ivoire on their victory, but highlighted the character shown by his players after falling behind.

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

The Ghana coach said he was particularly proud of the way his players responded to adversity and continued to compete until the final whistle.

“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 after 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.