Former French World Cup winner Marcel Desailly has expressed strong confidence in Ivory Coast’s potential, naming the Elephants as Africa’s best hope for success at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Speaking ahead of the tournament, Desailly praised the Ivorian squad’s blend of experienced stars and emerging talents, highlighting their technical ability, tactical discipline, and competitive spirit as key factors that could set them apart from other African nations.
“Ivory Coast has a very balanced team,” Desailly said. “They have players with international experience and young talent eager to make a mark. If they perform at their best, they can certainly challenge for a strong run in 2026.”
Desailly also emphasized the country’s rich football history, recalling the Elephants’ previous successes at the Africa Cup of Nations and their regular presence in World Cup tournaments. According to him, this pedigree, combined with careful planning and preparation, positions Ivory Coast as a team to watch on the global stage.
The former Chelsea and AC Milan star urged the Ivorian squad to maintain unity and focus during the qualifying process and beyond, noting that mental strength would be as crucial as technical ability in navigating the challenges of a World Cup campaign.
Fans and analysts have welcomed Desailly’s endorsement, with many seeing it as a vote of confidence for a generation of players who are eager to leave their mark in North America in 2026.
As preparations intensify, all eyes will be on Ivory Coast to see if they can live up to the expectations and emerge as Africa’s standout team at the next World Cup.
