World Cup 2026: Côte d'Ivoire writes new pages in history

Africa Yesterday at 23:20

Nafongo TRAORE

News Editor

14.06.26 FT World Cup

Ivory Coast

1

:

Ecuador

0

At Lincoln Financial Field on June 14, Côte d'Ivoire kicked off the World Cup with a thrilling 1-0 victory over Ecuador. The Elephants have entered the history books.

Côte d'Ivoire became only the second African nation to win their opening match against a South American team, following Cameroon in 1990 when they defeated Argentina led by Diego Maradona by the same 1-0 scoreline.

The Elephants are also the first African team since Senegal in 2018 to start their World Cup campaign with a win. No African nation achieved this feat at Qatar 2022.

This victory over Ecuador marks Côte d'Ivoire's fourth win in 10 World Cup matches. The Elephants exited at the group stage in 2006, 2010, and 2014 after just three games each time.

After 12 years, a new era begins, led by a generation of talent that promises a bright future.

Related teams and leagues

Ivory Coast

Ecuador

World Cup