WAFCON 2026: Ivory Coast begin preparations in Abidjan for tournament

Ivory Coast women’s team have officially began preparations for upcoming 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco after launching a training camp in Abidjan during the June international window.

Head coach Reynald Pedros oversaw the first training session on Monday, June 1, as the Elephants stepped up their preparations for the continental showpiece, where they will be aiming to make a strong impression against Africa’s best teams.

The camp marks an important stage in Ivory Coast’s build-up to the tournament, giving the coaching staff an opportunity to assess player fitness, refine tactical plans and strengthen team cohesion ahead of the competition.

A total of 25 of the 27 players selected by Pedros were present for the opening session. The only absentees were Ange Koko and Rosemonde Kouassi, who are expected to join the squad in the coming days and complete the full group.

The encouraging turnout allowed the technical team to begin working with the majority of the squad immediately, ensuring preparations remain on schedule as the team enters a crucial phase before travelling to Morocco.

As part of their preparations, the Ivorians will face Cape Verde Women’s National Football Team in a two-match friendly series at the iconic Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny in Abidjan.

The first encounter is scheduled for June 5 at 7:00 pm GMT, while the second match will be played three days later on June 8 at the same venue and kick-off time.

The double-header is expected to provide valuable competitive action for Pedros and his players as they fine-tune their preparations before the start of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. The matches will allow the coaching staff to evaluate different tactical approaches, assess squad depth and build momentum ahead of the tournament.

For several players, the fixtures will also represent an opportunity to stake their claim for a regular place in the starting lineup, while others will be looking to prove their readiness for the demands of continental football.

Ivory Coast heads into the upcoming WAFCON with renewed ambition and confidence after securing qualification for the tournament. The team will be eager to make a positive impact in Morocco and continue the progress made under Pedros’ leadership.

With the training camp now underway and two important friendly matches on the horizon, preparations for Africa’s biggest women’s football tournament have officially begun for the Elephants, who will be hoping to arrive in Morocco fully prepared to challenge some of the continent’s strongest nations.