World Cup 2026: Emerse Faé aims for top spot in Group E against Germany

Africa Today at 00:46

Nafongo TRAORE

News Editor

14.06.26 FT World Cup

Ivory Coast

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:

Ecuador

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The Elephants of Ivory Coast kicked off their World Cup campaign in perfect fashion thanks to a 1-0 victory over Ecuador. In his post-match comments, coach Emerse Faé reminded everyone of the team’s lofty ambitions.

Emerse Faé is no longer hiding his intentions—he wants to see Ivory Coast finish at the top of Group E, ahead of tournament favorites Germany.

We want to win our matches and finish the group stage as leaders. We weren’t considered favorites at the start, but we have a golden opportunity on Saturday in Toronto (against Germany) to secure qualification for the knockout stage and guarantee first place in the group.

The German team stormed into the tournament, crushing Curaçao 7-1 on June 14 and taking the group lead on goal difference. To finish the stage on top, Ivory Coast must go all out for victory against Die Mannschaft on June 20 at 20:00 GMT.
"We will play all our cards," promised Emerse Faé.

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