Ivory Coast Names Provisional 28-Man Squad for Brazil 2014 World Cup
Ivory Coast head coach Sabri Lamouchi has unveiled a 28-man provisional squad for the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, with the country’s most celebrated stars leading the charge as the Elephants prepare for what could be a defining moment in their footballing history.
The squad includes the backbone of the national team: iconic striker Didier Drogba, midfield powerhouse Yaya Touré, experienced defender Kolo Touré, Roma forward Gervinho, veteran midfielder Didier Zokora, and attacker Salomon Kalou. All are set to play key roles as Ivory Coast heads into its third consecutive World Cup campaign.
Among the goalkeepers, Mandé Sayouba has been called up as a backup to the long-serving first-choice keeper, Boubacar Barry, also known as Copa. Sayouba, who joined Norwegian side Stabaek at just 18, has increasingly become a regular face in Lamouchi’s plans and is seen as a promising future custodian for the national team.
Speaking to Footafrica365, Sayouba expressed his optimism about the team’s prospects: “We’ve been handed a very good group, and I think we should do well. I hope the team goes all the way. With the players we have, we have the necessary weapons to shine, and why not win?”
The young goalkeeper also highlighted the mentorship he receives from Barry. “It’s going very well. He’s a very experienced goalkeeper who I’m lucky to be around. During my first selection, he gave me a lot of advice and welcomed me very well. He’s a bit like a big brother to me. He made it easier for me to integrate into the squad.”
Before heading to Brazil, the Elephants will fine-tune their preparations with two international friendlies in the United States—against Bosnia on May 30 in St. Louis and El Salvador on June 4 in Dallas.
Ivory Coast has been drawn in Group C and will begin their World Cup journey against Japan on June 14 in Recife. They will then face Colombia on June 19 in Brasilia, before wrapping up the group stage against Greece on June 24 in Fortaleza.
With a squad blending seasoned veterans and rising talents, and led by a coach determined to make a mark, Ivory Coast will be aiming to finally progress beyond the group stage—a feat they have yet to achieve despite their talented squads in 2006 and 2010.
