Ivory Coast national football team head coach Emerse Fae is set to name his squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the announcement scheduled for 15 May in Abidjan.
The unveiling will take place at the Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny, where Fae is expected to address the media and confirm the players selected for the tournament, which will be held across the United States, Canada and Mexico.
The 2026 edition of the competition will feature an expanded format of 48 teams, with Ivory Coast securing one of Africa’s nine automatic qualification places.
The Elephants have been drawn in Group E, where they will face Germany national football team, Ecuador national football team and Curaçao national football team.
Fae has spent recent months evaluating his options, balancing experienced players with emerging talent as he looks to assemble a squad capable of competing at the highest level.
Competition for places is understood to be intense, with strong options across all areas of the team following a period of rebuilding that has strengthened the squad’s core.
Expectations are growing that the final selection will reflect a blend of tactical organisation and attacking quality, characteristics long associated with Ivorian football.
Germany are expected to provide the most demanding test in the group, given their experience and record in major international tournaments.
Ecuador’s physical approach and pace are also likely to present a challenge, while Curaçao, making a rare appearance on the global stage, will be aiming to make an impression.
For Ivory Coast, progression to the knockout stages will depend on consistency and the ability to deliver in key moments against varied opposition.
With the squad announcement approaching, discussion among supporters has intensified over potential inclusions and whether there could be unexpected selections.
Once the squad is confirmed, focus will shift quickly to preparations for the tournament, as Ivory Coast aim to make a strong impact at one of the most competitive World Cups to date.
