Ghorbal to referee Ghana-Côte d’Ivoire 2027 AFCON qualifier

Algerian referee Mustapha Ghorbal has been selected to officiate Ghana’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match against Côte d’Ivoire. The fixture is scheduled for 24 September 2026 at the Stade de la Paix in Bouaké, with kick-off at 19:00 GMT.

Ghorbal will lead an all-Algerian officiating team for the West African encounter. Abbes Akram Zerhouni and Mokrane Gourari will serve as the first and second assistant referees, while Loutfi Bekouassa has been appointed as the fourth official.

The match will mark Ghana’s opening step in the race for a place at the 2027 AFCON finals. The Black Stars will travel to neighbouring Côte d’Ivoire for the fixture, which places them away from home at the start of their qualifying campaign.

The meeting is expected to draw attention because of the rivalry between the two West African countries. Ghana will be seeking a disciplined display in Bouaké, with a positive result away from home capable of giving the Black Stars early momentum and strengthening their position in the qualification group.

Ghorbal’s appointment brings an experienced Algerian referee to a fixture carrying significance for both teams. Côte d’Ivoire will have home advantage, while Ghana begin their campaign with the task of managing an important away match under the appointed officiating team.

The appointment also gives clear responsibility to Zerhouni, Gourari and Bekouassa as part of the match officials. Their work alongside Ghorbal will cover the full officiating team for the qualifier, which is set to begin at 19:00 GMT in Bouaké.