World Cup 2026: Emerse Faé targets winning start as Ivory Coast return to football’s biggest stage

Ivory Coast head coach Emerse Faé says his side are determined to make a positive start to their 2026 World Cup campaign as the Elephants prepare to face Ecuador in their opening Group E fixture.

Speaking at a press conference at Lincoln Financial Field, Faé expressed confidence in his squad ahead of a match that marks Ivory Coast’s return to the World Cup after missing the previous two editions of the tournament.

For the Ivorian coach, the encounter carries significance beyond the result itself.

It represents the national team’s return to football’s biggest stage and an opportunity to demonstrate its progress following a period away from the global spotlight.

The Elephants arrive at the tournament with optimism and without any major fitness concerns.

According to reports, no significant physical problems have disrupted preparations, leaving Faé with a full squad available for selection ahead of the crucial opening fixture.

That availability has given the coaching staff a welcome boost as they seek to begin the competition on a positive note against a team expected to provide a stern challenge.

Faé acknowledged the quality of Ecuador and predicted a demanding contest.

He described the South American side as disciplined and intense, warning that the margins between success and failure at the World Cup are often extremely small.

With little room for error, the coach stressed the importance of concentration, organisation and efficiency in key moments of the match.

He believes his players will need to show discipline in all areas of the pitch while taking advantage of opportunities when they arise.

The opening fixture is viewed as a key moment in Ivory Coast’s campaign.

A strong result could provide momentum and confidence for the matches that follow, while also reinforcing belief within a squad carrying significant expectations.

Those expectations have increased following the team’s recent continental success and the emergence of a group of players capable of competing at a high level.

The World Cup now offers another opportunity for the Elephants to confirm their status among Africa’s leading football nations.

Returning to the tournament after missing the last two editions also adds extra motivation.

The players have the chance to re-establish themselves on the world stage and show that they belong among the competition’s elite teams.

Preparations for the tournament have progressed smoothly, allowing Faé and his staff to focus entirely on tactical and technical aspects ahead of the Ecuador clash.

The coach will hope that stability translates into a composed and effective performance when the action begins.

As kickoff approaches, Ivory Coast’s objective is clear.

The Elephants want to begin their World Cup journey with a strong display and a positive result, setting the tone for the remainder of their campaign and signalling their intent to make an impact on their return to the global stage.