Ivory Coast sweats over Evan Ndicka fitness ahead of 2026 World Cup

Ivory Coast international Evan Ndicka is facing a race against time to be fit for the FIFA World Cup after medical examinations confirmed the defender suffered a significant hamstring injury during AS Roma’s Serie A clash against Lazio.

The defender was forced off during the heated derby encounter after appearing to suffer discomfort in his right leg, immediately sparking fears among both Roma supporters and Ivory Coast fans ahead of next month’s global tournament.

While there was initial hope that the injury would not be serious, further medical assessments have reportedly revealed a grade II hamstring tear in his right leg.

The diagnosis is expected to sideline the towering centre-back for between three and four weeks — a timeline that has now placed his participation at the World Cup in major doubt.

The tournament, which will be staged across the United States, Canada and Mexico, is scheduled to kick off on 11 June, leaving very little recovery time for the defender.

Ndicka has become one of the most important players for both club and country in recent seasons, and his possible absence would represent a massive setback for the Ivory Coast national football team ahead of football’s biggest event.

The 25-year-old has enjoyed another strong campaign with Roma, establishing himself as a key figure in defence thanks to his composure, strength, and consistency at the highest level of European football. His performances in Serie A have further strengthened his reputation as one of Africa’s top defenders.

For Ivory Coast, the timing of the injury could hardly be worse. The Elephants are preparing for a highly demanding World Cup campaign and were expected to rely heavily on Ndicka’s experience and leadership in defence.

The uncertainty surrounding his condition is now likely to become a major concern for the national team’s technical staff, who will closely monitor his rehabilitation process over the coming weeks.

Although the recovery period does not officially rule him out of the tournament, there are growing fears that he may not regain full fitness in time for the opening matches. Even if he recovers before the competition begins, questions will remain over his match sharpness and physical condition after several weeks on the sidelines.

Roma, meanwhile, will also be disappointed to lose one of their most reliable defenders during a crucial stage of the season. The Italian club will now have to cope without the Ivorian as he begins rehabilitation and treatment.

Supporters across Ivory Coast will be hoping the defender can make a speedy recovery and avoid missing the biggest tournament of his career. However, with the World Cup fast approaching, Ndicka now faces an anxious wait as he battles to prove his fitness in time for the global showpiece