Emerse Faé Backs Côte d’Ivoire to “Break the Barrier” After Favourable 2026 World Cup Draw
Côte d’Ivoire head coach Emerse Faé says the Elephants will head into the 2026 FIFA World Cup with confidence and renewed ambition after landing in a group he believes is “within our reach.”
The African champions were drawn into Group E alongside:
- Germany 🇩🇪
- Ecuador 🇪🇨
- Curaçao 🇨🇼
A balanced mix of pedigree, power and unpredictability — but one that Faé insists gives the Elephants a real shot at making history.
A Chance to Make World Cup History
Despite their success on the African stage, Côte d’Ivoire have never made it past the group phase in their previous World Cup appearances (2006, 2010, 2014).
But Faé, who guided the nation to their stunning 2023 AFCON triumph on home soil, believes this group represents a genuine opportunity to change that narrative.
“It’s a strong group, but we have our chances,” he said.
“We start against Ecuador, a team that plays with a lot of intensity — but so do we. Then Germany, and finally Curaçao. It’s a group within our reach. We must be serious and give everything to qualify.”
The Mindset Shift: “African Football Must Believe More”
Faé spoke passionately about the progress Africa has made in recent years, insisting that the continent — and particularly Côte d’Ivoire — must enter global tournaments with greater conviction.
“African football is improving a lot, and it needs to believe in itself,” he said.
“Côte d’Ivoire needs to aim as far as possible in this tournament.”
With many of his players excelling in Europe’s top leagues, Faé believes the Elephants have the technical level, physical power and competitive mentality to trouble all three opponents.
A Tactical Test With Real Opportunity
Côte d’Ivoire’s path in the group:
- Ecuador – High tempo, powerful transitions
- Germany – Four-time world champions with elite pedigree
- Curaçao – A fast, unpredictable CONCACAF side
Faé acknowledges the challenges but stresses that discipline, consistency and self-belief will define their campaign — not the names on the opposition shirts.
“We’ve never reached the knockout stage, so that is our first target,” he emphasised.
“We have the quality to compete. Now we must show it.”
The Mission Begins
The Elephants enter the tournament as Africa’s reigning champions and one of the continent’s most complete teams. For Faé, this World Cup is not just another appearance — it is a chance to finally push Côte d’Ivoire into the last 32 and beyond.
Diskiafrika will be following their journey every step of the way.
