Ivory Coast has begun to clarify the outlines of its preparation for the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, as the Elephants gear up for what promises to be a demanding and highly competitive tournament in Egypt. Drawn into Group D, widely described by observers as a true “group of death,” the Ivorian national team is leaving nothing to chance in its build-up to the continental finals.
To prepare in the best possible conditions, the Ivorian Football Federation has decided to organize the team’s pre-tournament training camp in France. The Elephants will be based in Chantilly, in the Oise region, from June 1 to June 10. This location offers a calm environment and high-quality training facilities, ideal for fine-tuning physical fitness, tactical organization, and team cohesion ahead of the AFCON.
Under the guidance of the technical staff, this training camp will be a crucial phase in shaping the squad and finalizing key decisions. Players will have the opportunity to adapt to the coach’s tactical ideas, while the staff assesses individual form and collective balance. With many Ivorian internationals playing across Europe’s top leagues, the French base also provides logistical convenience and minimizes travel fatigue.
As part of their preparations, Ivory Coast have scheduled at least one friendly match during their stay in France. Serge Aurier and his teammates will face Uganda on June 7 in a warm-up fixture designed to test the team under competitive conditions. Although the venue for the match has yet to be confirmed, the encounter will offer a valuable opportunity to evaluate match rhythm, tactical adjustments, and squad depth just weeks before the tournament kicks off.
Beyond this confirmed fixture, the Elephants are expected to play one or two additional friendly matches before the start of the Africa Cup of Nations. These games will be used to further refine strategies, address any weaknesses, and ensure the squad reaches peak condition at the right moment. Such matches are also essential for building confidence and momentum, especially for a team aiming to reclaim its status among Africa’s elite.
Ivory Coast’s task at the AFCON will be far from easy. Drawn into Group D, they will face formidable opposition in Morocco, South Africa, and Namibia. Morocco are considered one of the tournament favorites, boasting a technically gifted squad and strong recent performances. South Africa bring experience and physical strength, while Namibia will be eager to cause an upset and make their mark on the competition.
Given the quality and balance within the group, every match will be crucial, and there will be little room for error. This reality makes the preparation phase all the more important for the Elephants, who are determined to approach the tournament with discipline, focus, and ambition.
With a well-structured training camp in France, a series of friendly matches, and a clear awareness of the challenges ahead, Ivory Coast is laying the groundwork for a serious and competitive campaign at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt.
