The Ivory Coast national football team, fresh off their resounding victory in the African Cup of Nations, has officially announced their plans to engage in two friendly matches in France at the end of March. This strategic move is aimed at fine-tuning their skills and maintaining their competitive edge before delving into the critical 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Gabon and Kenya scheduled for June.
The Elephants are set to face Benin on March 23 at 4:00 p.m. GMT (5:00 p.m. local time) in a match slated to unfold at the illustrious Stade de la Licorne in Amiens.
This encounter serves as a pivotal opportunity for the Ivorian team to sustain the winning momentum garnered from their recent triumph in the African Cup of Nations.
Subsequently, on March 26 at 7:30 p.m. GMT (8:30 p.m. local time), the Ivorian players will lock horns with Uruguay.
The prestigious Stade Bollaert in Lens has been meticulously chosen as the venue for this clash, presenting a poignant moment for Seko Fofana, who is anticipated to revisit familiar grounds.
The confirmation of these locations and dates was officially disseminated by the Ivorian Football Federation on Saturday, utilizing various social media platforms to share the exciting news with football enthusiasts worldwide.
Emerse Faé, the newly appointed coach who assumed leadership amidst the African Cup of Nations, now faces the significant challenge of building upon the remarkable performance of the team.
Tasked with guiding the Elephants through a tumultuous group stage, Faé must solidify the team’s resilience and form as they brace for the upcoming trials in the quest for World Cup qualification in June.
The stakes are high, and the Ivorian fans eagerly await the outcome under the stewardship of Coach Faé.
