Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire renew one of African football’s most familiar rivalries on Thursday, September 24, 2026, when they meet in Bouaké in their opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.

The game brings together two sides with plenty of individual quality, but both coaches know that matches of this magnitude can be decided by moments: a run in behind, a midfield battle won, a defensive intervention or a piece of individual brilliance.

With Ghana missing Mohammed Kudus, Antoine Semenyo and captain Jordan Ayew, Carlos Queiroz will need other players to step forward, while Hervé Renard will expect his established leaders and emerging talents to deliver for the hosts.

Here are five players whose performances could have a major influence on the outcome.

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Yan Diomandé – Côte d’Ivoire

At just 19, Diomandé arrives as one of the most talked-about young players in the Ivorian squad.

The winger's rapid rise has taken him from RB Leipzig to Real Madrid, and he is expected to carry a significant part of Côte d’Ivoire's attacking threat against Ghana.

His pace and directness could test Ghana's defensive structure, particularly when he receives the ball in wide areas and attacks defenders one-on-one.

Franck Kessié – Côte d’Ivoire

While Diomandé represents the new generation, Kessié provides the experience.

The Ivorian captain remains an important presence in the middle of the pitch and could become central to the battle for control of the game.

He has the physicality to compete for possession, the ability to carry the ball forward and the experience of playing in high-pressure international matches.

Christopher Bonsu Baah – Ghana

Ghana's attacking options have been significantly reduced by the withdrawals of Kudus, Semenyo and Ayew, placing greater responsibility on players such as Bonsu Baah.

The Al Qadsiah forward offers pace and direct running and can provide a different dimension when Ghana transition from defence to attack.

Against an Ivorian side expected to enjoy periods of possession, Bonsu Baah's ability to exploit space behind the defence could be particularly important. One successful counter-attack may be enough to change the momentum of the contest.

Fatawu Issahaku – Ghana

Fatawu could also be crucial to Ghana's attempt to stretch the Ivorian defence.

The winger's pace, movement and willingness to take defenders on give the Black Stars an outlet on the flank, while his ability to move inside can create additional options around the penalty area.

With Ghana likely to face pressure at different stages of the game, Fatawu's ability to turn defensive situations into attacking opportunities could prove valuable.

Alexander Djiku – Ghana

At the other end of the pitch, Ghana's chances could depend heavily on how well they handle Côte d’Ivoire's attacking players.

That places Alexander Djiku in an important role.

The experienced defender will be expected to provide leadership at the back and help Ghana deal with the movement and pace of players such as Diomandé.

His positioning, decision-making and ability to win key defensive duels could become particularly important if Côte d’Ivoire dominate possession.

FKA/JKB

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