World Cup 2026: Elephants receive national flag as mission begins

During their training camp in France, the Ivorian Elephants received the national flag on Tuesday from Minister of Sports Agi Silas Mitch. This symbolic and significant gesture marks the official start of their journey toward the 2026 World Cup in North America.

After appearances in 2006, 2010, and 2014, Côte d’Ivoire is preparing for their fourth World Cup finals in history. Three-time African champions, most recently in 2023, coach Emerse Faé’s men approach this tournament as one of the continent’s heavyweights, with a clear ambition to reach the knockout stage for the first time.

The draw placed the Ivorians in Group E, where they will kick off their campaign against Ecuador, the physically robust South American side. Next up is Germany, four-time world champions and heavy favorites to top the group, before wrapping up the group stage against Curacao—the dark horse from CONCACAF making their World Cup debut.

Nafongo TRAORE |

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Nafongon Moussa TRAORE, Burkinabè de 25 ans, est passionné de football, est rédacteur pour Foot Africa et commentateur pour BurkiFoot.

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