Ivory Coast coach Hervé Renard eyes victory against The Gambia

Ivory Coast head coach Hervé Renard has challenged his players to maintain their winning momentum when they host The Gambia in their third Group C fixture of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

The Elephants welcome the Scorpions to the Stade de la Paix in Bouaké on Thursday, November 12, with Renard determined to secure another three points and strengthen his side’s position at the top of the group.

The defending African champions have made an impressive start to their qualifying campaign, winning their opening two matches to collect six points and establish themselves as Group C leaders.

With qualification for the tournament in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda in 2027 firmly in their sights, Renard insists his team cannot afford to lose focus as they prepare for another important assignment.

Speaking ahead of the encounter, the French tactician made it clear that his side’s immediate objective remains unchanged, stressing the importance of collecting maximum points against the Gambian visitors.

“We’re still in the same frame of mind: to go out and get the three points so that we can gradually move closer to qualifying for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. The objective hasn’t changed. It’s still the same challenge. We’ll also need to prepare well for the return leg, which will take place a few months later,” Renard said.

The Ivory Coast coach also recognises the importance of approaching the fixture with the right mentality, particularly as the team look to build on their positive start and avoid dropping points at home.

A third consecutive victory would further consolidate the Elephants’ position at the summit of Group C and put them in a stronger position to secure qualification for the continental showpiece.

However, The Gambia will be determined to frustrate the hosts and improve their own standing in the group, setting the stage for a competitive encounter in Bouaké.

Renard will be counting on his players to translate their home advantage into another positive result as Ivory Coast continue their pursuit of a place at the 2027 AFCON.