Chris Bedia’s double sends strong message to Ivory Coast selectors

Chris Bedia underlined his outstanding season with a second-half double against FC Zurich on Sunday, strengthening his claim as one of the Swiss Super League’s most decisive forwards and raising fresh questions about his absence from the Ivory Coast national team.

The 29-year-old striker’s brace for BSC Young Boys took his league tally to 15 goals in 20 appearances, placing him among the most prolific players in Switzerland this term.

It was the third time this season he has scored twice in a single league match, further evidence of his growing influence.

Bedia now shares the top scorer spot in the Swiss Super League with his team-mate Christian Fassnacht. Yet beyond competing with others, the Ivorian appears to be surpassing his own standards.

He has already bettered his 2023-2024 league return of 10 goals and, across all competitions, has reached 16 goals — exceeding the 15 he managed throughout the entirety of last season.

With several league fixtures still to play, he has time to extend that total and strengthen his grip at the summit of the scoring charts.

For a player who has long sought consistency at the highest level, this campaign represents a breakthrough.

Week after week, Bedia has delivered, transforming promise into tangible output and establishing himself as a central figure in Young Boys’ attacking plans.

His performances have inevitably reignited discussion about his international future. Despite his form, Bedia has never received a call-up to represent the Elephants of Ivory Coast. Now, at what many would consider the peak of his career, his case is harder to ignore.

Joint top scorer in the Swiss league and producing the strongest numbers of his professional life, he presents a compelling option.

National coach Emerse Faé may be tempted to consider him for the upcoming international fixtures, as debate continues over whether Bedia’s time on the international stage has finally arrived.