World Cup 2026: We have to win – Ivory Coast coach Emerse Fae ahead of Norway showdown

Ivory Coast head coach Emerse Faé has set his sights on securing victory against Norway in the round 32 of the 2026 World Cup being staged across the United States, Canada and Mexico.

The West African football heavyweights takes the European outfit on Tuesday evening in the round 32 of the global showpiece, in what is expected to be one of their most important matches of the tournament so far.

For Ivory Coast, the stakes are clear: only victory will guarantee progression to the Round of 16, with Faé stressing the knockout nature of the encounter leaves no room for caution or calculation.

Speaking at a pre-match press conference, the Ivorian coach underlined the importance of mentality, focus and ambition as his side prepare for a high-pressure showdown against the European opposition.

“There is no ideal scenario. We have to win to qualify, however we do it, because this is a knockout match,” Faé stated.

The coach acknowledged the impressive performances of African nations at the tournament so far, expressing pride in the continent’s collective progress on the global stage. However, he made it clear that Ivory Coast’s own journey remains the priority.

“We are really pleased with how the African teams have performed in the first round. We hope that the eight teams still in the running will make it through to the Round of 16,” he said.

“But, naturally, above all I hope that Ivory Coast goes as far as possible amongst all these teams.”

Faé’s comments reflect a growing confidence within the Ivorian camp, who have shown resilience and ambition throughout the tournament and now stand just one win away from advancing deeper into the knockout stages.

The Elephants enter the Norway clash knowing that their World Cup ambitions depend on delivering under pressure. The match is expected to be tightly contested, with both sides aware that a single moment could decide their fate.

Ivory Coast will rely on their physical strength, tactical discipline and attacking quality as they aim to overcome a determined Norwegian side also chasing qualification.

With the tournament reaching its most decisive phase, Faé’s message is clear: survival is not enough — Ivory Coast must compete, believe, and push toward greatness on football’s biggest stage.