World Cup 2026: Cote d’Ivoire receive major boost as striker Elye Wahi cleared to enter Canada

Cote d’Ivoire have received a significant boost ahead of their FIFA World Cup clash against Germany after the country’s football federation confirmed that striker Elye Wahi has been cleared to enter Canada.

The Fédération Ivoirienne de Football (FIF) announced on Thursday that the administrative issues surrounding the forward’s travel had been resolved, allowing him to continue his participation in the tournament.

In an official statement, the federation revealed that the necessary authorisations for Wahi’s entry into Canadian territory had been obtained, paving the way for him to travel with the Elephants delegation.

“The administrative situation of Elye Wahi has evolved favourably. The necessary permissions for his entry into Canadian territory have now been obtained,” the statement read.

“As a result, the Ivorian international is authorised to travel with the Elephants delegation to Canada and will continue his participation in the competition alongside his teammates as normal.”

The announcement ends days of uncertainty surrounding the 23-year-old striker, who had reportedly faced difficulties entering Canada due to an ongoing investigation in France over alleged match-fixing offences.

Wahi is currently under investigation by French authorities regarding allegations that he deliberately sought a yellow card while playing for Nice in a Ligue 1 match against Metz in May.

The striker has not been charged with any offence and remains available for selection.

The former France youth international played in Cote d’Ivoire’s opening World Cup match against Ecuador, helping the Elephants secure a valuable 1-0 victory.

His availability is expected to provide a major boost to coach Emerse Faé ahead of Saturday’s crucial Group E encounter against Germany in Toronto.

The FIF also expressed its gratitude to all parties involved in resolving the matter and welcomed the positive outcome.

With the travel issue now settled, Wahi is expected to rejoin the squad in Canada as Cote d’Ivoire continue their quest for a place in the knockout stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.