Ghana’s Black Queens face Côte d’Ivoire on Thursday, August 13, 2026, in a crucial play-off that could determine whether their hopes of reaching the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup remain alive.

The encounter comes after Ghana’s heartbreaking 2-1 defeat to Malawi in the WAFCON quarter-finals.

The defeat was a painful blow, but Ghana still have a route to Brazil.

Victory over the Ivorians would send the Black Queens into the FIFA intercontinental play-off tournament, keeping alive their hopes of returning to the World Cup for the first time since 2007.

Black Queens demand unpaid bonuses before World Cup playoff game

The psychological battle could be just as important as the tactical one.

Ghana are coming into the game after a defeat Björkegren described as one of the worst feelings of his coaching career, while Côte d’Ivoire are equally desperate after their own quarter-final exit.

Players who can decide it

Ghana will rely on Doris Boaduwaa for attacking inspiration despite her one goal and missed chances, while Grace Asantewaa could be key to controlling the midfield tempo.

Captain Portia Boakye will provide leadership and defensive stability.

Côte d’Ivoire, meanwhile, will look to 18-year-old Grace Ruth Sery, who has impressed with her passing and scored twice against South Africa, and Inès Konan, the tournament’s four-goal striker.

What game should we expect?

This is unlikely to be a game where either side wants to take unnecessary risks early.

The fear of elimination could produce a cagey opening, with both teams trying to settle their nerves and avoid conceding first.

But as the match progresses, the intensity should rise. Ghana know they must score to keep their World Cup dream alive, while Côte d’Ivoire have shown enough attacking quality to punish defensive mistakes.

The biggest battle could therefore come in midfield and the final third.

Ghana must turn possession and chances into goals, something Josephine Bonsu has already identified as crucial.

With everything riding on 90 minutes, expect anxiety, physical battles, emotional moments and very little between two West African rivals who know that one mistake could end their World Cup dream.

FKA/JKB

NSA pushes for greater inclusion of local players in Black Stars