AFCON Countdown – Can The Elephants Rule Africa Again?

by Staff Reporter

Wednesday Dec 03, 2025. 14:00

The Africa Cup of Nations is set to return — and with it comes the reigning champions Ivory Coast, stepping back onto the continental stage with their sights firmly set on defending the title they claimed so dramatically in early 2024.

After an unforgettable triumph on home soil, the Elephants head to Morocco in 2025 with ambitions of becoming back-to-back champions.

Few moments captured the continent’s imagination like those in Abidjan last year, when Ivory Coast lifted the AFCON trophy before an ecstatic home crowd. Their 2-1 victory over Nigeria in the final completed one of the competition’s most remarkable storylines: a shaky group stage, a mid-tournament coaching change, and a resilient surge that culminated in glory. Now they must attempt to repeat that success — this time without the emotional boost of playing at home.

Their path to Morocco has had its hurdles. By their high standards, Ivory Coast delivered a modest qualifying campaign, finishing second in their group behind Zambia and suffering two defeats in the process. Yet any concerns were quickly tempered by their impressive start to the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Disciplined, organised, and defensively watertight, they topped their group without conceding a single goal — a strong signal that the champions have rediscovered their rhythm.

Much of this renewed confidence stems from head coach Emerse Faé. Thrust into the spotlight as interim manager during the 2023 tournament after Jean-Louis Gasset’s departure, Faé revitalised the team with calm authority and clear tactical direction. His full-time appointment brought continuity and strengthened the bond within the squad.

On the field, Ivory Coast remain laden with talent. Captain Franck Kessié continues to drive the team from midfield with his blend of leadership and relentless work rate. Alongside him, Ibrahim Sangaré and Seko Fofana offer power, balance, and intelligence — forming one of the most formidable midfield trios in Africa.

In attack, Sébastien Haller — scorer of the decisive goal in the 2023 final — remains the spearhead, while the pace and ingenuity of Simon Adingra and Amad Diallo provide width and unpredictability. At the back, Ghislain Konan brings stability and experience, ensuring the Elephants retain a solid structure across all areas of the pitch.

With an experienced core, exciting young talent, and a coach who has already shown he can handle pressure on the biggest stage, Ivory Coast possesses the qualities required for another deep tournament run. But retaining an AFCON title is notoriously difficult, especially with so many strong contenders chasing the crown.