2026 World Cup: Émerse Faé sets ambitious goal to restore Ivory Coast’s reputation

Ivory Coast will compete in Group E at the 2026 World Cup alongside Germany, Ecuador and Curaçao, and coach Émerse Faé has set a clear objective: qualify from the group and restore national pride as the Elephants return to football’s biggest stage.

The draw placed Ivory Coast in a group where Germany stands out as the frontrunner.

The 2014 world champions enter the tournament with expectations of a deep run, while Ecuador arrives with growing confidence after steady improvement in recent years.

Curaçao, considered the underdog, will look to frustrate their opponents and exploit any opportunity presented by the bigger nations.

Faé analysed the group and outlined the ambition driving his squad. He said, “It’s a good group.

I think we have the opportunity to get through the group stage as long as we stay serious and focused. Ecuador is a team that’s improving.

They caused problems for Senegal in 2022. Curaçao is the underdog; they’ll try to be a spoiler, and then there’s Germany, the favourite, who will want to reclaim the world title.

For us, it’s imperative to get out of this group. We have to restore Ivory Coast’s pride as they return to the World Cup.”

Faé’s words underline the determination within the camp. The Elephants aim to enter the competition with discipline, focus and the desire to confirm their status as African champions.

Every match will carry significant weight, as Ivory Coast seeks to re-establish itself among the world’s elite.

For the nation’s new generation of players, the challenge extends beyond simply navigating a demanding group.

They must prove they can compete with established teams like Germany and Ecuador while ensuring they do not overlook Curaçao, a side eager to disrupt the hierarchy.

Progressing to the knockout stage will mark a successful comeback and reaffirm Ivory Coast’s ambition on the global stage.