Ivory Coast head coach Emerse Faé will unveil his squad for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers on Monday, March 10, in Abidjan.
The Elephants are scheduled to face Burundi at the Meknes Stadium in Morocco on March 21 at 19:00 GMT, before hosting Gambia in Abidjan’s Plateau district three days later at the same time. Both fixtures are pivotal in Ivory Coast’s bid to secure qualification for the global tournament.
Coach Faé has emphasised that his selection will be based strictly on merit. “When we make a list, we take players who are competitive and who are capable of coming to put competition in the group,” he recently stated.
The African champion’s comments highlight his determination to foster a competitive environment within the squad, ensuring each player earns their place.
Among the anticipated call-ups, goalkeepers Yahia Fofana from Angers and Badra Ali Sangaré of Sekhukhune United are expected to retain their positions, following consistent performances in recent matches.
The defensive lineup is likely to feature familiar faces, including Emmanuel Agbadou (Wolverhampton), Ousmane Diomandé (Sporting), and Evan Ndicka (AS Roma). These players have been key figures in the team’s defensive structure under Faé’s leadership.
Midfield selections remain uncertain, particularly with the potential absence of captain Franck Kessié, who recently suffered an injury during the Asian Champions League. His availability will be closely monitored ahead of the squad announcement.
In attack, doubts also surround Borussia Dortmund forward Sébastien Haller, who has been struggling with fitness issues. However, Simon Adingra, Jean-Philippe Krasso, and Nicolas Pépé are likely to feature prominently in the squad.
Emerse Faé’s Probable Squad:
Goalkeepers:
- Yahia Fofana (Angers)
- Badra Ali Sangaré (Sekhukhune United)
Defenders:
- Emmanuel Agbadou (Wolverhampton)
- Ousmane Diomandé (Sporting)
- Sinaly Diomandé
- Guela Doué
- Evan Ndicka (AS Roma)
- Christopher Operi
- Wilfried Singo
Midfielders:
- Jean-Eudes Aholou
- Lazare Amani
- Seko Fofana
- Franck Kessié (uncertain)
- Hamed Junior Traoré
Forwards:
- Simon Adingra
- Vakoun Bayo
- Sébastien Haller (uncertain)
- Oumar Diakité
- Evann Guessand
- Jean-Philippe Krasso
- Nicolas Pépé
- Blessed Traoré
Ivory Coast currently sits atop their qualification group but faces strong competition from Gabon. The Elephants must secure positive results in both matches to maintain their lead and bolster their chances of reaching the 2026 World Cup.
