Ivory Coast begin CAN 2027 campaign strongly despite Cameroon defeat

Ivory Coast took six points from their opening two CAN 2027 qualifiers during the international break, although their return to action under Herve Renard ended with a 1-0 friendly defeat by Cameroon.

Renard, back in charge of the Elephants, saw his side make a positive start to their qualifying campaign. Ivory Coast beat Ghana 2-0 at the Stade de la Paix in Bouake on 24 September 2026, with Malick Yalcouye opening the scoring before Franck Kessie converted a penalty to secure the win.

Five days later, Ivory Coast produced another 2-0 victory against Somalia, but had to wait until the closing stages to break the deadlock. Yann Gboho put them ahead in the 89th minute, before Bazoumana Toure added a second goal in stoppage time.

Their international window concluded on 3 October with a 1-0 loss to Cameroon at the Stade olympique Alassane Ouattara d’Ebimpe. Bil Nsongo scored shortly after half-time to give the Indomitable Lions victory.

Despite that result, Ivory Coast remain top of Group C in the CAN 2027 qualifying standings. They have six points from two matches, have not conceded a goal in the qualifiers and lead Gambia on goal difference.

The Elephants will return to competitive action in November with a two-match meeting against Gambia. The fixtures will provide another opportunity to strengthen their position and continue their progress towards CAN 2027.

Ivory Coast’s international window

24 September 2026: Ivory Coast 2-0 Ghana CAN 2027 qualifying

29 September 2026: Somalia 0-2 Ivory Coast CAN 2027 qualifying

3 October 2026: Ivory Coast 0-1 Cameroon friendly

Next fixtures

11 November 2026: Ivory Coast v Gambia CAN 2027 qualifying

15 November 2026: Gambia v Ivory Coast CAN 2027 qualifying