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Real Madrid star Yan Diomande, Nicolas Pepe named in Côte d’Ivoire squad to face Ghana
Côte d’Ivoire have named a strong squad for their opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Ghana, with Real Madrid forward Yan Diomande and experienced winger Nicolas Pepe included in Hervé Renard’s selection.
Diomande, who joined Real Madrid from RB Leipzig this summer, is among the headline names in the squad for the September international window.
Pepe, who brings significant international experience, is also included as Renard prepares for his first competitive game since returning as Côte d’Ivoire coach.
However, the Elephants will be without Manchester United winger Amad Diallo, who is recovering from an injury. Reports indicate he is expected to miss the opening qualifiers against Ghana and Somalia.
Ajax winger Simon Adingra is another notable absentee. The former Brighton attacker is recovering from an ankle injury and recently indicated that he needed another two to three weeks to regain full fitness.
The squad also features established stars including Franck Kessié, Ibrahim Sangaré, Ousmane Diomande and Odilon Kossounou.
Côte d’Ivoire will host Ghana in a highly anticipated Group C opener on Thursday, September 24, 2026, at the Stade de la Paix in Bouaké, with kick-off at 19:00 GMT. CAF has confirmed the fixture as one of the headline matches of the opening round of the qualifiers.
The Black Stars will then host The Gambia on September 29, while Côte d’Ivoire travel to face Somalia on the same day.
Source:Fiilasports/ghanasoccernet
