Ghana Coach Queiroz Downplays Injury List Ahead of AFCON 2027 Qualifier
Ghana will miss captain Jordan Ayew, vice‑captain Thomas Partey, forwards Mohammed Kudus and Antoine Semenyo for the qualifier against Côte d’Ivoire in Bouaké.

In Brief
- •Ghana will miss captain Jordan Ayew, vice‑captain Thomas Partey, forwards Mohammed Kudus and Antoine Semenyo for the qualifier against Côte d’Ivoire in Bouaké.
- •Coach Carlos Queiroz says he has complete confidence in the players available and believes they have enough quality to deliver a strong performance against the 2023 AFCON champions.
- •Queiroz stresses that the most important players are those who are present today and that Ghana has potential and enthusiasm.
- •The match is scheduled for Thursday as the opening game of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.
Why It Matters
Ghana’s injury crisis threatens to weaken a squad that has been a strong contender in recent African tournaments. Coach Queiroz’s confidence may influence team morale and public perception, while the outcome of the opener against Côte d’Ivoire will set the tone for Ghana’s qualification campaign. A strong performance could secure a favorable position in the group, whereas a poor showing might jeopardise their chances of reaching the final tournament.
Key Details
- Key Absentees
- Jordan Ayew, Thomas Partey, Mohammed Kudus, Antoine Semenyo
- Opponent
- Côte d’Ivoire
- Venue
- Bouaké
- Coach
- Carlos Queiroz
- Confidence Statement
- Complete confidence in available players
Context & Background
Ghana’s national team, known as the Black Stars, has faced a series of injuries to key players ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. The team’s coach, Carlos Queiroz, has publicly downplayed the impact of these absences, emphasizing the quality of the remaining squad.
Original Reporting & Sources
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