World Cup 2026: Ivory Coast’s official starting XI against Ecuador

Africa Today at 18:41

Nafongo TRAORE

News Editor

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Ivory Coast

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Ecuador

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The moment of truth has arrived for Ivory Coast. Tonight at Lincoln Financial Field, the Elephants kick off their journey in the 2026 World Cup against Ecuador. Kick-off is set for 23:00 GMT. Emerse Faé leaves no room for surprises in his first starting lineup.

The coach is betting on experience to launch the campaign. Franck Kessié, Seko Fofana, Nicolas Pépé, Ghislain Konan: the core pillars are in from the start. These are players who know the pressure of big occasions and are expected to lead the group.

Attacking lineup

It’s a highly offensive setup with players like Elye Wahi leading the line, supported by the talented Yan Diomandé, Bazoumana Touré, and Nicolas Pépé. Speed, penetration, spontaneity: Ivory Coast’s attack wants to strike hard from the opening whistle.

The surprise in the squad is Amad Diallo starting on the bench. The Manchester United winger had shown his importance in recent times.

In Group E, Germany had already made a statement earlier by thrashing Curaçao 7-1. Now it’s the Elephants’ turn. Kick-off is set for 23:00 GMT at Lincoln Financial Field.

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Ivory Coast

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