About us

Football Development

Official Documents

Cote d'Ivoire Profile – 2026 CAF TotalEnergies U-17 Africa Cup of Nations

Published:

Côte d’Ivoire U-17 Profile

Key Facts

  • Team: Côte d’Ivoire
  • Appearance: 7th
  • Last Appearance: 2025
  • Best Performance: Champions (2013)

Côte d’Ivoire arrive at the TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations 2026 as WAFU B champions, full of confidence after a dominant campaign on home soil in Yamoussoukro.

The Young Elephants lifted the regional title following a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Ghana in the final, confirming their status as one of West Africa’s strongest emerging sides.

How They Qualified

Côte d’Ivoire were crowned champions of the WAFU B qualifiers after edging Ghana 4-3 on penalties following a goalless draw in regulation time.

Goalkeeper Adama Diabaté proved decisive, saving two penalties in the shootout to secure the title.

Their journey to the final included a 2-1 semi-final victory over Burkina Faso, where Souleymane Tuo and Bema Abdoul were on target to seal qualification for the continental finals.

History in the Competition

Côte d’Ivoire have a proud history at youth level, having won the U-17 AFCON in 2013.

Their consistent presence at youth tournaments reflects a strong talent pipeline, and their latest triumph signals a resurgence in their development structures.

Key Players to Watch

  • Bema Doumbia (Forward) – The tournament’s top scorer, Doumbia was a constant threat in attack.
  • Cheick Malo (Midfielder) – Named Best Player of the tournament, a technically gifted playmaker with leadership qualities.
  • Adama Diabaté (Goalkeeper) – The hero of the final, whose penalty saves secured the title and earned him Best Goalkeeper honours.

Coach & Tactical Approach

Côte d’Ivoire are coached by Bassiriki Diabaté, who has built a tactically balanced and mentally resilient team.

His philosophy focuses on:

  • Strong midfield control, led by technically gifted players
  • Efficient attacking transitions
  • Mental toughness, especially in high-pressure moments

Diabaté’s side combines physicality with technical quality, making them one of the most complete teams in the tournament.

Tournament Expectations

As WAFU B champions, Côte d’Ivoire will aim to progress beyond the group stage and secure qualification for the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2026.

Given their depth and recent success, they are also strong contenders for a deep run and could challenge for the continental title.