Ivory Coast could face Iraq in a friendly match on 8 June as part of their preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, according to the President of the Ivorian Football Federation.
Idriss Diallo confirmed that discussions are ongoing, although no final agreement has yet been reached.
The possible fixture would come just days after another high-profile warm-up match against France on 4 June, forming part of a busy schedule designed to fine-tune the African champions ahead of the global tournament.
Speaking in an interview with NCI on Thursday, Diallo stressed that while negotiations are progressing, nothing has been officially concluded.
“We are working on it, it’s not finalized yet. It’s a hypothesis, which is not yet definitive,” said Idriss Diallo
Despite the uncertainty, the federation president confirmed that talks with the Iraqi football authorities remain active, raising the possibility of a second international friendly within a four-day window.
If confirmed, the match against Iraq would provide Ivory Coast with a valuable opportunity to test themselves against a World Cup-qualified Asian side.
It would also allow the team to experience a different tactical and physical challenge ahead of the tournament in North America.
The Elephants are using the current international calendar to prepare thoroughly for what will be their fourth appearance at the FIFA World Cup, having previously featured in 2006, 2010 and 2014.
The upcoming Group E fixtures in the 2026 tournament are expected to present a significant challenge for the African champions.
Ivory Coast have been drawn alongside football heavyweight Germany, South American side Ecuador, and debutants Curaçao.
Group E matches are scheduled to take place between 14 and 25 June 2026, meaning the proposed friendly against Iraq would fall just days before the start of the competition.
For the Ivorian coaching staff, the priority is ensuring the squad enters the tournament with maximum tactical sharpness and match rhythm, particularly after a demanding qualification campaign.
The Elephants have been working to maintain momentum following their successful African qualifying run, where they impressed with consistent performances to secure their place at the World Cup.
Friendly matches against opponents from different continents are seen as an important part of that preparation process, offering exposure to varying styles of play.
While the France fixture already provides a high-level European test, Iraq would represent a different challenge from the Asian football landscape, helping broaden the team’s preparation profile.
