Ivory Coast
Key Players
Squad
Goalkeepers
Defenders
Midfielders
Forwards
About
Ivory Coast arrive at the 2026 FIFA World Cup as reigning African champions, having won a dramatic Africa Cup of Nations on home soil in 2024. Under head coach Emerse Faé, who took over mid-tournament during AFCON and delivered an improbable title, Les Éléphants carry the confidence and momentum of continental champions. The squad has evolved beyond the Drogba-Touré era into a new generation led by Amad Diallo of Manchester United, whose explosive pace and creativity make him one of the most dangerous wingers in the Premier League. Ibrahim Sangaré provides midfield power from Nottingham Forest, while Franck Kessié brings experience and physicality. The defense is anchored by Odilon Kossounou of Atalanta and Evan Ndicka of AS Roma, both proven at Champions League level. Simon Adingra offers dynamic attacking options from AS Monaco. Drawn into Group E alongside Germany, Curaçao, and Ecuador, Ivory Coast are genuine contenders for the second qualifying spot behind the Germans. The AFCON triumph proved this team's resilience and big-game mentality, and they possess the individual quality to compete with any side in the group. With their blend of European-league experience, physical prowess, and the winning mentality forged at AFCON 2024, Ivory Coast are expected to advance from the group stage. A Round of 16 victory would match their ambitions, and this squad has the talent to surprise established European and South American teams.
Group Stage Schedule
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the coach of Ivory Coast at World Cup 2026?
Emerse Faé is the head coach of Ivory Coast at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The former Ivorian international took over the national team mid-tournament during the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations and led them to an improbable title on home soil, earning him the permanent position.
What group is Ivory Coast in at World Cup 2026?
Ivory Coast are in Group E at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, alongside Germany, Curaçao, and Ecuador. As reigning African champions, they are strong contenders for the second qualifying spot behind Germany.
Did Ivory Coast win the Africa Cup of Nations 2024?
Yes, Ivory Coast won the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations on home soil in one of the most dramatic tournaments in history. After a rocky start that included a group-stage defeat, Les Éléphants rallied under new coach Emerse Faé to win the title, beating Nigeria in the final.
Who are the key players for Ivory Coast at World Cup 2026?
Ivory Coast's key players include Amad Diallo (Manchester United), Ibrahim Sangaré (Nottingham Forest), Franck Kessié (Al Ahli), Odilon Kossounou (Atalanta), and Simon Adingra (AS Monaco). This new generation has moved beyond the Drogba-Touré era with proven talent across Europe's top leagues.
How many World Cups has Ivory Coast played in?
Ivory Coast have previously appeared at three FIFA World Cups: 2006 in Germany, 2010 in South Africa, and 2014 in Brazil. The 2026 tournament is their fourth World Cup. They have never advanced beyond the group stage, making this their opportunity to make history.