World Cup 2026: Didier Otokoré believes Ivory Coast can progress beyond the group stage

Former Ivory Coast defender Didier Otokoré believes the Elephants have every chance of advancing from their group at the 2026 World Cup, although he has warned that their opening match against Ecuador could prove decisive.

Speaking to 225foot as Ivory Coast prepare to begin their campaign, Otokoré expressed confidence in the team’s prospects while stressing the importance of making a strong start in the competition.

The former international views the group as one that Ivory Coast can successfully navigate, but he believes the first fixture could shape the rest of the team’s tournament.

“I think we have a group that Ivory Coast can advance from. But the first match will be truly decisive because Ecuador is a bit like the Africans of South America. It will be a much more complicated match than some imagine. Everything will stem from this first game.”

His comments reflect a sense of optimism surrounding the national team as it prepares to compete on football’s biggest stage.

While many supporters are looking forward to seeing how far the Elephants can go in the tournament, Otokoré believes the opening encounter will provide the clearest indication of their chances of progression.

According to the former AJ Auxerre defender, Ecuador represent a particularly challenging opponent because of their style of play and competitive qualities.

As a result, he sees the match as far more significant than simply the first game on the schedule.

A positive result, in his view, could provide momentum and confidence for the remainder of the group stage, while a difficult start would increase the pressure in the matches that follow.

Although Otokoré is optimistic about Ivory Coast’s ability to qualify for the next round, he also used the opportunity to discuss the broader direction of the national team.

The former defender suggested that the World Cup could have been used to accelerate the development of younger players and help prepare them for future international tournaments.

He believes major competitions provide valuable experience that can contribute to long-term growth and development.

“If it had been up to me, I would have invested in the future by selecting many promising young players to gain experience at this World Cup. To be honest, we’re not going to this World Cup to win it.”

The remarks underline his belief that long-term planning should remain part of the national team’s strategy, even while competing at the highest level.

Despite that viewpoint, Otokoré acknowledged that recent events have strengthened belief within the squad.

Ivory Coast’s victory against France has, in his opinion, given the players additional confidence ahead of the tournament.

“The Elephants have gained confidence with this victory against France. They are a little more confident today, but they must not forget that the real competition is just beginning.”

The warning serves as a reminder that preparation matches and previous results will have little bearing once the World Cup begins.

For Otokoré, confidence can be an important asset, but maintaining focus will be equally essential if the team is to achieve its objectives.

The former defender remains convinced that progression remains a realistic target.

With opportunities available for teams beyond the traditional group winners, he believes Ivory Coast can continue their journey if they approach each match with the right mentality and level of commitment.

“Eight countries will be given a second chance in the next rounds. We have to hope we make it through. It’s possible if we play very seriously. That’s all I wish for them. After that, we’ll see how it goes, match by match.”

Those comments summarise Otokoré’s outlook ahead of the tournament.

He does not see Ivory Coast among the favourites to lift the trophy, but he believes the squad possesses enough quality to compete effectively and challenge for a place in the knockout rounds.

Much, however, may depend on how the Elephants perform when they face Ecuador in their opening fixture.

As the World Cup approaches, Otokoré’s message is one of cautious optimism: the path beyond the group stage is achievable, but only if Ivory Coast approach the challenge with discipline, seriousness and the confidence gained from recent success.