Ivory Coast’s national football team departed for the FIFA World Cup in confident mood and eye-catching fashion, dressed in coordinated orange blazers, just days after securing an impressive 2–1 friendly victory over France. The win, sealed by goals from Guela Doué and Amad Diallo, has injected fresh belief into a squad preparing for its first World Cup appearance since 2014.
The Elephants, guided by head coach Emerse Faé and captained by Franck Kessié, left their training base amid growing optimism that they can make a meaningful impact on the global stage. Their departure, marked by a blend of unity and style, has already captured attention across social media and sports circles.
“We are not just going to participate, we are going to compete,” Faé told reporters before departure. “The players understand the expectations, and they’ve shown in recent matches that they are ready.”
Ivory Coast’s 26-man squad reflects a deliberate balance between experience and emerging talent. Established names such as Nicolas Pépé bring tournament experience, while younger prospects like Yan Diomande represent the next generation tasked with carrying the nation’s ambitions forward.
Drawn into a challenging Group E, the Elephants will face Ecuador national football team, Germany national football team, and Curaçao national football team. Their campaign begins on June 14 in Philadelphia against Ecuador, a fixture that could prove decisive in shaping their path to the knockout stages.
Kessié, speaking ahead of the opener, emphasized the importance of a strong start. “The first match is always crucial. If we get it right, it sets the tone for everything that follows,” he said.
Ivory Coast qualified for the tournament in dominant fashion, topping their CAF qualifying group without a single defeat. That unbeaten run has strengthened belief within the squad that they can progress beyond the group stage, something the nation has yet to achieve in its World Cup history.
Analysts note that while Germany remain favorites in the group, Ivory Coast’s recent performances suggest they could emerge as serious contenders for a knockout spot. Their blend of pace, physicality, and tactical discipline was evident in the victory over France, a result that has not gone unnoticed by rivals.
As the team heads to the United States, expectations are rising back home, where fans are eager to see a new chapter written in the country’s football story. For Faé and his players, the mission is clear: turn promise into performance on the world’s biggest stage.
This is how Cote D’Ivoire will arrive in the USA later today.
— Owuraku Ampofo (@_owurakuampofo) June 6, 2026
Stylish as always 🇨🇮 pic.twitter.com/7kkQZjNXY2