George Afriyie urges Black Stars to treat Côte d’Ivoire clash as a final

Former Ghana Football Association (GFA) Vice-President George Afriyie has urged the Black Stars to approach their opening match against Côte d’Ivoire with maximum seriousness, describing the encounter as a “dicey and difficult” fixture.

Ghana are set to face Côte d’Ivoire in a crucial opening Group-stage encounter, with Afriyie warning that the team cannot afford to underestimate the Ivorians.

Speaking to Graphic Sports, Afriyie stressed the need for Ghana to prepare thoroughly and avoid the mistakes that contributed to the country’s failure to qualify in 2024.

“Our first match against Côte d’Ivoire is very dicey and difficult; we must approach it like the final,” Afriyie told Graphic Sports.

“But for me, I think that we should just prepare well. We must not repeat the mistakes of 2024 that caused us to miss qualification.”

Afriyie’s comments come as attention turns to Ghana’s preparations for the competition, with expectations high for the Black Stars to make a strong start.

He believes adequate preparation, discipline and a focused approach will be essential if Ghana are to overcome Côte d’Ivoire and put themselves in a favourable position in the group.

The former GFA vice-president also cautioned against complacency, particularly given the consequences of Ghana’s previous campaign in 2024.

The Black Stars will therefore be expected to enter the encounter with a strong mentality as they seek to avoid another disappointing campaign and make a positive start to their qualification ambitions.