Carlos Queiroz has praised Ghana’s response in their 2-0 defeat to Côte d’Ivoire, insisting he was proud of the Black Stars despite their opening loss in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

Côte d’Ivoire controlled much of the possession at the Stade de la Paix in Bouaké and secured all three points through goals from Malick Yalcouyé and Franck Kessié.

Queiroz, however, felt Ghana offered more when it came to creating attacking opportunities and penetrating the Ivorian defence.

“In terms of possession, Ivory Coast was better than us, in terms of attacking, penetration and creating opportunities, we are better than Ivory Coast,” the Portuguese coach said at the post-match press conference.

Despite the defeat, Queiroz was keen to recognise the effort of his players, particularly their response after falling behind and the difficult circumstances surrounding the match.

“But the result, it is for Ivory Coast, congratulations,” he added.

The Ghana coach then turned his attention to the character shown by his squad, saying their willingness to continue competing was one of the positives he would take from the defeat.

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“I also have to say that I am very proud, very proud of my team, very proud of my players, the way they fight, the way they play, the way they fight against adversity.”

Ghana were beaten by Yalcouyé’s strike shortly before half-time before Kessié converted from the penalty spot after the break.

The result leaves the Black Stars without a point from their opening Group C fixture, while Côte d’Ivoire make an early statement in the group.

Queiroz and his players will now have to regroup quickly ahead of Ghana’s next qualifier against The Gambia in Accra on September 29, 2026.

The fixture gives the Black Stars an immediate opportunity to respond to the Bouaké setback and begin their campaign on home soil.