Ivory Coast Returns to the World Cup with Great Ambitions

The Ivory Coast national team is preparing to return to the global stage at the 2026 World Cup after a 12-year absence, with clear ambitions from the federation and coaching staff to reach at least the quarter-finals.

The team returns after winning the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations on home soil, but enters the tournament without the same star power it had in the previous golden generation, relying more on organization and tactical discipline.

The team is led by coach Imers Fay, who employs a cohesive defensive style with strategies based on counterattacks and fast flanks. In midfield, Franck Kessié stands out as the team captain, alongside several options in midfield and defense such as Ibrahim Sangaré and Evan Ndicka, with a strong defensive record in the qualifiers.

In the offensive line, the team relies on prominent names such as Nicolas Pepe and Amad Diallo, in addition to rising talents, particularly the skillful Yan Diomande. Meanwhile, Ivan Gissand and Yoan Bony are expected to take on the responsibility of the striker role in the absence of a traditional offensive star like Didier Drogba in the past.

The young man Christ Enow is considered one of the most prominent rising stars in the Elephants' team coming from West Africa, who could make a difference in the tournament.

At the level of ambition, the Ivorian federation sets a clear goal of playing six matches and reaching the quarter-finals, with a desire to improve their image after a disappointing exit from the last Africa Cup. They are preparing well, having recently defeated the French national team.

Despite the great enthusiasm, fans may face difficulties traveling to the United States due to visa restrictions, which makes the greatest support expected from the communities in America. Meanwhile, the team is betting on a balanced generation that combines experience and ambition to restore the global glory of Ivorian football.