Ivory Coast to launch AFCON preparations with training camp in Marbella

Ivory Coast will begin their title defence for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with a training camp in Marbella, as confirmed by the Ivorian Football Federation (FIF).

With the tournament set to take place in Morocco from 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026, the Elephants are entering the final phase of preparation as they pursue a fourth continental crown.

The programme was outlined during an extraordinary general assembly held on Saturday, 29 November, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Plateau.

FIF president Yacine Idriss Diallo detailed the plans during a press conference, confirming that the national team will gather in Spain for a preparatory camp ahead of their departure for Marrakech on 20 December.

During the stay in Marbella, Ivory Coast are scheduled to play two friendly matches.

Although the FIF has yet to officially announce the opponents, information obtained suggests that the Elephants are set to face Zambia on 15 December and the Democratic Republic of Congo on 18 December.

Both fixtures will offer head coach Emerse Faé valuable insight into his squad’s readiness as they build towards the group stage in Morocco.

Faé is due to unveil his AFCON squad on 9 December, with the list expected to contain 33 players.

The selected group will assemble the following day, beginning ten days of intensive work designed to sharpen fitness levels, strengthen tactical cohesion and finalise competition plans.

The Marbella camp is also intended to provide a controlled environment away from the domestic spotlight as the team adjusts to the demands of a major international tournament.

The Elephants enter the 2025 edition as defending champions, a status that brings heightened scrutiny and expectation.

Their triumph at the previous tournament reaffirmed the nation’s position among Africa’s footballing powerhouses, and supporters will be eager to witness another deep run.

The upcoming friendlies will therefore be closely watched, offering early indicators of form and potential starting selections.

With just weeks remaining before the opening match, the training camp marks a crucial step in Ivory Coast’s preparation.

The FIF’s structured plan underlines the importance of a smooth build-up as the team aims to retain the trophy and write another chapter in their footballing history.