Ivory Coast Triumphs Over America in 2026 World Cup Qualifiers
The Ivory Coast has secured its spot in the 2026 World Cup following a decisive 3-0 victory over Kenya on October 14, 2025. This win marks the end of a successful qualifying campaign that spanned two years, with the team celebrating their return to the World Cup after missing out since the 2014 tournament in Brazil.
Match Highlights: Ivory Coast vs. Kenya
In a crucial match held in Abidjan, the Ivorian team needed just a victory to clinch their World Cup berth. They quickly took control, scoring their first goal in the seventh minute by Franck Kessié. Nicolas Pépé added intensity in the first half, putting pressure on the Kenyan defense.
- Goalscorers:
- Franck Kessié – 7th minute
- Yan Diomande (RB Leipzig) – 54th minute
- Amad Diallo – 84th minute
Diomande’s goal came from a precise right-foot strike, doubling the Ivorian lead. Later, Diallo sealed the game with a well-taken free-kick amidst heavy rain.
Gabon’s Journey and Challenges
Gabon also played their final match of the qualifiers against Burundi, which they won 2-0, courtesy of goals from Bryan Meyo Ngoua and Mario Lemina. However, they were unable to qualify directly. Gabon finished just one point behind Ivory Coast and will now compete in the playoff rounds in November in Morocco, alongside Cameroon, Nigeria, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
- Gabon’s Standings:
- Finished the qualifiers with 2-0 win over Burundi
- Goals by Bryan Meyo Ngoua and Mario Lemina
- Three points behind Ivory Coast
Gabon faced adversity, missing their star striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang due to suspension. Tensions escalated as the players refused to train the day before the match due to unpaid bonuses after their successful qualification for the Africa Cup of Nations.
Conclusion
The Ivory Coast’s performance has reinvigorated their fan base, and they now look forward to making an impact at the 2026 World Cup. On the other hand, Gabon must regroup quickly as they prepare for their challenging playoff fixtures.
