Ivory Coast looks for a sharp reaction in their meeting with Oman after a narrow defeat to Saudi Arabia.
The African champions travel into the fixture with clear intent to restore momentum as their preparation period continues.
Emerse Fae guides the Elephants with firm direction after steering the team into the FIFA World Cup for the first time since 2014.
His squad enters this match with confidence from a strong qualifying campaign, even though the recent result against Saudi Arabia disrupted their rhythm.
Saudi Arabia edged the Ivorians 1–0 in their friendly encounter, and the West African side left the pitch knowing they needed more cutting edge in the final third.
Ivory Coast carries the label of overwhelming favourites against Oman, a team many observers describe as limited in quality.
The Ivorians know that expectation follows them into every match since their continental triumph, and they intend to meet that standard with authority on the pitch.
The players plan to set the tone early, control possession, and impose their pace and power from the first whistle.
Oman, however, enters the contest with belief after a confident 2–0 win over Sudan only a few days ago.
The result offered encouragement to the squad and reminded opponents that they cannot take the Omanis lightly.
The team now hopes to build on that performance and challenge a heavyweight opponent despite the disparity between the two sides.
Ivory Coast aims to regain sharpness, reinforce discipline, and send a clear message about their form as major competitions approach.
The Elephants treat the match as an opportunity to correct recent shortcomings and strengthen their confidence.
Oman seeks another strong outing to show progress of their own, but the Ivorians intend to tighten their grip early and dictate the rhythm throughout.
