Renard makes successful return to Ivory Coast with 2-0 victory over Ghana

Hervé Renard made a successful return as head coach of Ivory Coast, securing a 2-0 victory over Ghana on September 24, 2026, in the opening match of 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying. The French manager, who had previously led the Elephants to an African championship title during his first stint, resumed command with a convincing win in this West African derby.

M. Yalcouyé was the only goalscorer recorded in available data, opening the scoring in the 43rd minute. The match, refereed by Mustapha Ghorbal, unfolded with Ivory Coast deployed in a 4-2-3-1 formation, notably featuring Franck Kessié and Ibrahim Sangaré in midfield, and Nicolas Pépé leading the attack alongside Ato Bonny.

Ghana, under Carlos Queiroz and organized in a 4-4-2 formation, failed to trouble the Ivorian defense sufficiently to overturn the trend. The Black Stars, who had offensive options such as Ernest Nuamah and Kamaldeen Sulemana on the bench, left empty-handed from this opening qualifying match.

For Renard, this opening success immediately eased the pressure surrounding a highly anticipated return. His first spell in charge of the Elephants had left a strong mark, and this opening victory in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying group confirms that the transition proceeded without turbulence.