Ivory Coast qualified unbeaten through their CAF group, building on the momentum of their 2023 AFCON triumph on home soil. The squad has excellent quality across all positions and Emerse Faé has blended the experienced core with emerging talent effectively.
Haller's return to full fitness after his well-documented health battle in 2022 is one of football's great comeback stories — and his goals in qualifying confirmed he is back to his best.
Key Player: Sébastien Haller
The Dortmund striker missed much of the 2022 World Cup preparation with a serious illness but has since returned to full fitness and form. His aerial ability, link-up play, and clinical finishing make him one of the most complete centre-forwards at the tournament.
Tactical Setup
Faé's 4-2-3-1 is technically polished. Kessié and one of Sangaré/Koné anchor the midfield, while Pépé provides width and creativity on the right. Ivory Coast love to build through central areas and create central overloads.
Tournament History
Four appearances, all ending in the group stage despite the quality in their squads. This edition represents their best chance to finally break through.