World Cup 2026: against Germany, Côte d'Ivoire can make history
This Saturday, June 20, at 8 p.m. GMT, Toronto Stadium hosts one of the most anticipated clashes of this group stage of the 2026 World Cup. Germany and Côte d'Ivoire meet there at the top of Group E, perfectly tied with 3 points, for a duel that could already shape the path to qualification.
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Ivory Coast faces the giant of Group E. This was the case before the tournament, and it is even more so after the majestic debut of the Germans, victorious 7-1 against Curaçao on the first matchday, an attacking festival which confirmed the Mannschaft's status as favorites. Ivory Coast, for its part, had to fight hard to snatch a 1-0 win against Ecuador, a victory in a highly contested match between the two outsiders of the pool.
The stakes: first place and history
Victory will secure the winner first place in the group as well as qualification for the round of 16. For Ivory Coast, the stakes go beyond simple ranking: if the Elephants win tonight, they would achieve a historic qualification for the second round, a first in their World Cup history.
But the opponent is formidable. Germany is riding an impressive streak of confidence against African teams in the World Cup, having lost only once to Africans in four encounters: in 1982 (1-2) against Algeria. The Germans have 2 wins (against Algeria in 2014) and Ghana (1-0 in 2010) and one draw (2-2 against Ghana in 2014).
Expected lineups
On the German side, Julian Nagelsmann should not disrupt his winning eleven: Neuer in goal, a back four consisting of Kimmich, Tah, Schlotterbeck and Brown, a double pivot of Nmecha-Pavlović, and an attacking trio of Sané - Musiala - Wirtz to support Havertz up front, a fluid and vertical setup that hurt Curaçao.
On the Ivorian side, Emerse Faé can rely on a full squad. Elye Wahi, whose travel had been uncertain due to administrative reasons, finally obtained his visa and is available, as is Evan N'Dicka, initially uncertain, who adds an extra option in central defense. The formation should be in 4-4-2 with Fofana in goal, a center-back pairing of Singo - N'Dicka, and a strike duo of Pépé - Wahi, supported by the midfield experience of Seko Fofana - Franck Kessié to handle the German pressing. In attack, Yan Diomandé will be tasked with igniting the wing play, just as he did against Ecuador.
Nothing to lose
The advantage for Ivory Coast is that the duel against Germany is just a bonus. Even in the event of a defeat, Ivory Coast can secure its qualification on the third and final matchday against Curaçao. This is an opportunity to play without pressure against the Germans and make a big impression on the world stage.