Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz says the Black Stars’ young players have a golden opportunity to announce themselves on the international stage when Ghana face Côte d’Ivoire in their opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier on Thursday.
With several experienced players unavailable for the trip to Bouaké, Queiroz has handed opportunities to a number of emerging talents and believes the situation could help accelerate their development with the senior national team.
The Portuguese coach says Ghana must gradually build a new generation capable of taking over from the current crop of experienced players.
“In the past, these experienced players were the young players of the past. Tomorrow, the young players will be the experienced players of the future,” Queiroz said at his pre-match press conference.
The 73-year-old coach believes the Black Stars have enough young talent to make a meaningful contribution against the Elephants if given the opportunity.
“There is always a generation of players to renew and refresh. We have a couple of great potential, great talent players. They are full of enthusiasm. They are looking for an opportunity to shine, to serve the national team,” he said.
Queiroz is also confident that the youngsters will not be overawed by the occasion and can step up when called upon.
“I am sure that with the talent that they have tomorrow, they can give a good contribution for the team,” he added.
Ghana have been forced to make several changes to their squad ahead of Thursday’s encounter, with experienced players including Thomas Partey, Mohammed Kudus, Antoine Semenyo and Jordan Ayew among those unavailable.
The Black Stars will take on Côte d’Ivoire at the Stade de la Paix in Bouaké before returning home to face The Gambia in Accra on September 27.
The encounter will be Queiroz’s first competitive fixture since beginning his second spell as Ghana coach following his role in guiding the Black Stars at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
With several senior figures missing, Thursday’s clash could therefore provide a crucial platform for Ghana’s emerging talents to show that they are ready to carry the Black Stars forward.