Ivory Coast vs Ghana prediction 24.09.2026 | Africa Cup of Nations Qualification

Ivory Coast’s recent performances on the international stage have been nothing short of positive. Apart from narrow one-goal defeats to Germany and Norway at the World Cup this summer, the Elephants have secured five wins across different competitions, including a sensational 2-1 away victory over France, albeit in a friendly.

Herve Renard's first squad contains a strong core, including Franck Kessié, Ibrahim Sangaré, Evan Ndicka, Ousmane Diomandé and Nicolas Pépé. However, the legendary French coach has also made significant changes, bringing eight uncapped players into the group. 

There are some important absences. Amad Diallo and Wilfried Singo were ruled out through injury, while Odilon Kossounou and Guéla Doué have also been withdrawn because of injuries. Junior Diaz and Luck Zogbé were subsequently added as replacements.

Ghana's recent results have been considerably more defensive in nature. Their last five matches produced only one win, with only three goals scored, including a narrow 1-0 win over Panama at the World Cup, which was followed by a 0-0 draw with England before losing 2-1 to Croatia and 1-0 to Colombia in the Round of 32.

Queiroz has retained much of the squad that represented Ghana at the World Cup while recalling several players. Mohammed Kudus was initially included after recovering from a seven-month injury layoff, alongside returning players such as Nathaniel Adjei, Ibrahim Osman and Ibrahim Sulemana. 

However, Kudus has subsequently opted out of the international window to continue his recovery and regain full fitness at Tottenham. Thomas Partey is also unavailable through injury, leaving Ghana without two experienced midfield options.