“Ghana is also a great African nation”: Franck Kessié recognises the stakes in the clash against the Black Stars

Côte d’Ivoire will kick off their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign on Thursday.

The Elephants will face Ghana’s Black Stars on 24 September in Bouaké on the opening day. Although Côte d’Ivoire will be playing in front of their home crowd for their opening match in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, Franck Kessié expects a particularly intense clash against the Black Stars.

For the Elephants’ captain, the geographical proximity between Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana and their shared history in African football lend a special significance to this clash. The Ivorian midfielder nevertheless insists that the squad is working hard to ensure they are ready to rise to the challenge of this fixture.

“It’s clear. When you play Ghana, it’s a derby. Ghana is also a great African nation, with some very, very good players. As the manager said, we’re working hard, taking on board the instructions from the manager and his staff so that we’re at our best tomorrow, right from the referee’s whistle.”