Ghana midfielder Kwasi Sibo says the quality within Côte d’Ivoire’s squad will not intimidate the Black Stars when the two teams meet in their opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.
The Black Stars will begin their Group C campaign away from home against the Elephants at the Stade de la Paix in Bouaké, but Sibo believes Ghana have enough quality to compete with their hosts.
Both teams are entering a new era under experienced coaches, with Ghana now led by Carlos Queiroz following the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Ghana’s preparations have also been affected by the late withdrawal of Mohammed Kudus, who will miss the encounter as he continues his recovery from injury. Mohammed Fuseini has subsequently been called up to strengthen the Black Stars’ attacking options.
Despite Kudus’ absence and the strength of the Ivorian squad, Sibo remains confident that Ghana can match their opponents.
“It doesn’t scare me. We know the opponents in front of us. They are a very good nation and have good individual players. We also have quality players who can match them, and we are ready for that match,” Sibo said.
Seven players opened Ghana’s training camp at the Accra Sports Stadium on Monday as the Black Stars began preparations for their trip to Bouaké.
The team will return home after the opening fixture to face The Gambia in their second Group C qualifier on September 29.
Ghana will be hoping to make a positive start in Côte d’Ivoire as Queiroz begins his latest project with the Black Stars.
