Yamoussoukro FC set for historic friendly against French giants Marseille in Abidjan

Newly promoted Ivorian Ligue 1 side Yamoussoukro FC will face one of France’s biggest clubs, Olympique de Marseille, in a high-profile pre-season friendly as part of the French club’s summer tour of Ivory Coast.

The encounter, scheduled for 17 July 2026 at the Félix Houphouët-Boigny Stadium in Abidjan, will provide Yamoussoukro FC with a rare opportunity to measure themselves against top-level European opposition ahead of their return to the Ivorian top flight.

Yamoussoukro FC secured promotion to the Ivorian Ligue 1 for the 2026–2027 season, and the clash against Marseille will serve as a crucial part of their preparations as they gear up for the challenges of competing among the country’s elite clubs.

For Marseille, the fixture forms part of their training camp in Abidjan, which will run from 15 to 18 July 2026, as the French Ligue 1 giants continue their preparations for the upcoming campaign.

The match is expected to attract significant attention from football fans in Ivory Coast, with Yamoussoukro FC eager to showcase their progress against a club with a rich European history.

Beyond the result, the friendly presents a valuable learning experience for the Ivorian side, allowing their players to compete against international stars and gain exposure ahead of their Ligue 1 return.

The meeting between Yamoussoukro FC and Marseille will also highlight the growing football relationship between Ivory Coast and European clubs, further strengthening Abidjan’s reputation as a destination for major pre-season tours.