Can Franck Kessié lead a new generation of Côte d'Ivoire stars in North America? All players, full squad list, key stats and schedule

For the first time since 2014, Côte d'Ivoire are heading to the FIFA World Cup.

The Elephants**,** ranked 34th globally, topped CAF Group F in qualifying with an unbeaten record — eight wins, two draws, and a goal difference of +25, the best in African qualification.

After exiting in the group stage in all three previous appearances (2006, 2010, 2014), the three-time African football champions will be desperate for a first World Cup knockout-round appearance.

They are drawn in Group E alongside Germany, Ecuador and Curaçao.

Here is what you need to know about Côte d'Ivoire.

FIFA World Cup: All teams, squads and players - complete list

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Who are Côte d'Ivoire's stars to watch at the 2026 FIFA World Cup?

Manchester United winger Amad Diallo is the player everyone wants to see — electric, two-footed, and coming off his best club season. Alongside him, RB Leipzig's Yan Diomandé is one of Europe's most coveted young forwards, with Premier League giants circling ahead of the summer transfer window.

Holding it all together in midfield is century-cap captain Franck Kessié, the heartbeat of a side that knows — finally — this might be their moment to break the group stage curse.

FIFA World Cup 2026 – Côte d'Ivoire’s group stage schedule

All times in local time

Côte d'Ivoire vs Ecuador — 14 June 2026, 19:00 EDT — Philadelphia (USA)

Germany vs Côte d'Ivoire — 20 June 2026, 16:00 EDT — Toronto (CAN)

Curaçao vs Côte d'Ivoire — 25 June 2026, 16:00 EDT — Philadelphia (USA)

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