Cote d’Ivoire name 43-player squad for 2026 FIFA U-17 World Cup

Cote d’Ivoire have begun preparations for the 2026 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar after coach Bassiriki Diabate named a provisional squad of 43 players.

The list will eventually be cut to 21 before the tournament begins, creating strong competition for places among the Elephanteaux.

The provisional group includes five goalkeepers, 14 defenders, 12 midfielders and 12 forwards. Most of the players are based in domestic leagues, while eight are playing abroad, giving the coaching staff a broad range of options as preparations continue.

Former footballer Kader Keita has assessed the squad and the challenge facing the team as Cote d’Ivoire works towards its latest appearance on the world stage.

The main opportunity for players to secure their place will come during a training camp in Dubai and a programme of seven friendly matches. Cote d’Ivoire are scheduled to face Al Ain, Tajikistan, Panama, Mozambique, Mali, Burkina Faso and Mexico.

Those fixtures will give the candidates the chance to demonstrate their ability before Diabate makes the final selection. With only 21 places available, every match will carry added importance as the staff decide which players can form a competitive squad for Qatar.

Building on African Nations Cup experience

The Elephanteaux qualified for the World Cup after reaching the quarter-finals of the U-17 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

Cote d’Ivoire topped their group with seven points, but their campaign ended in the last eight when they were beaten 4-1 by Egypt.

For Kader Keita, the continental tournament provides a useful foundation, although the World Cup will demand a higher level from the players and the team as a whole.

The tournament in Qatar will be Cote d’Ivoire’s sixth appearance at a FIFA U-17 World Cup. The immediate task is to turn a wide preliminary selection into a settled and competitive 21-man squad capable of representing Ivorian football internationally.

The final group will be chosen after the Dubai camp and the seven friendlies, with the 43 hopefuls competing for the limited places available.