2027 AFCON Qualifiers: Abdoul Ouattara earns maiden Côte d’Ivoire call-up for Gambia games

Ipswich Town defender Abdoul Ouattara has earned his first senior Côte d’Ivoire call-up after overcoming a previous back injury that disrupted his international ambitions.

The 21-year-old full-back has been rewarded for his impressive start to life in the Premier League with a place in the Elephants’ squad for their upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Gambia.

Ouattara will be hoping to make his senior international debut when Côte d’Ivoire host Gambia on Thursday, November 12, before travelling to face the same opponents in the return fixture the following Tuesday.

His inclusion marks a significant milestone in his career after previously receiving a call-up to the country’s U23 team but being forced to withdraw because of a back injury.

Ouattara gets first senior opportunity

The defender’s performances at Ipswich have earned him recognition from the Ivorian national team technical staff, opening the door to his first opportunity at senior international level.

Having established himself as an exciting prospect at club level, the 21-year-old now has the chance to translate his progress into the international arena.

A debut would also see Ouattara make history as the first player to represent Côte d’Ivoire while playing for Ipswich Town.

The milestone would further underline his growing profile following his impressive start to the Premier League campaign.

Back injury previously disrupted international hopes

Ouattara’s maiden senior invitation comes after an earlier setback with the national team.

The defender had previously been selected for Côte d’Ivoire’s U23 side but was unable to take up the opportunity after suffering a back injury.

His latest selection represents another chance to establish himself within the country’s international setup, this time with the senior team.

With two qualifying fixtures against Gambia scheduled during the November international window, Ouattara will be hoping to make an immediate impression and earn his first appearance for the Elephants.