2026 World Cup: Elye Wahi finally cleared to join Ivory Coast in Canada

Great news for Ivory Coast. Ivorian striker Elye Wahi has finally been granted permission to enter Canada and will be available for the Group E clash against Germany on Saturday in Toronto.

While his presence in Canada had been in doubt due to an ongoing investigation related to a sports betting affair surrounding the match between OGC Nice and FC Metz, Canadian authorities have now given the green light. This decision follows the submission of a document from the Marseille prosecutor's office confirming that the player "is not under formal investigation and is not subject to any prosecution" in this case.

Case resolved just in time

Canada had requested additional information regarding the player's legal situation before granting him entry. Earlier today, his lawyer, Marie Dosé, had already clarified that the striker "is not being prosecuted at this stage and is not subject to any judicial restrictions."

This decision comes as a huge relief for the Elephants. Called up for the first time to the Ivory Coast national team last March after switching his sporting nationality, Wahi started as a regular in the 1-0 win over Ecuador on matchday one.

A significant boost before facing Germany

Ivory Coast will now approach their duel with Germany with their full attacking arsenal available. After their opening victory over Ecuador, Emerse Faé's men will be aiming for a major upset against a confident Mannschaft, fresh off their 7-1 demolition of Curaçao.

The presence of Elye Wahi is a major asset for the Ivorians in what promises to be one of the most anticipated fixtures of the 2026 World Cup group stage.

Nouya M'toama

Editorfr, en

Versatile journalist specializing in sports and political news, with extensive experience across radio, print and digital media platforms.