Cote d’Ivoire captain Franck Kessie says the Elephants must be ready from the first whistle when they face Ghana in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying derby.
The two teams meet on Thursday, with Cote d’Ivoire continuing their preparations for a match Kessie believes carries particular significance because of the history and standing of both nations in African football.
“It is clear. When you play Ghana, it is a derby. Ghana are also a great African nation, with very, very good players,” the midfielder said at a news conference.
Kessie stressed the importance of following the instructions of coach Emerse Fae and his staff as Cote d’Ivoire look to complete their preparations effectively.
“As the coach said, we are working and taking on board the instructions from the coach and his staff so that we can be at our best tomorrow, from the referee’s first whistle,” he added.
The Elephants are aiming to maintain their concentration and apply the technical staff’s plans from the opening minutes against the Black Stars in one of the most anticipated fixtures of the qualifying campaign.