Ivory Coast Coach on Factor Behind Indomitable World Cup Qualifying Campaign After Thrashing Harambee Stars

Emerse Fae has credited “absolute solidarity and love for the jersey” as the driving force behind Ivory Coast’s flawless march to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, following their emphatic 3-0 win over Kenya’s Harambee Stars in Abidjan.

The Elephants, who have been in resurgent form since lifting the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title on home soil, capped off their qualification campaign with another commanding display — one that not only sealed top spot in Group F but also underlined their status as one of Africa’s most complete teams.

Against Kenya, the Elephants were at their ruthless best. Goals from Franck Kessié, Yan Diomande, and Amad Diallo ensured a comfortable victory in front of a packed crowd at the Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny. 

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Kenya, led by Benni McCarthy, could not cope with the relentless pace and precision of Fae’s men, who have now gone the entire campaign unbeaten.

Reflecting on the qualification campaign, Fae said it was the unity within the squad that made the difference.

“Absolute solidarity. We've created an exceptional group, on and off the pitch. That's the key,” the Ivorian tactician told AIP. 

“You sometimes see teams full of individual talent that don't win. We've been a close-knit group. 

“This quality of life together and the love of the jersey shared by everyone, from the youngest to the oldest, have allowed us to overcome difficult times. 

“Against opponents like Gabon, who pushed us to our limits until the end, or Kenya, it was this collective strength that made the difference.”

The Elephants’ campaign has been marked by consistency, depth, and discipline — hallmarks of Faé’s leadership since taking over the reins following the departure of Jean-Louis Gasset before the 2023 AFCON. 

Under his watch, emerging stars such as Yan Diomande and Evann Guessand have flourished alongside seasoned campaigners like Kessié, Ibrahima Sangare and Sebastien Haller.

Their unbeaten run through qualifying — highlighted by commanding wins over Gabon, Burundi, and Kenya — now positions Ivory Coast as one of the early favourites heading into the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

Faé, who made history by becoming the first Ivorian coach to lead the country to a World Cup, made it clear that his ambitions extend far beyond mere qualification.

“We’re ambitious, we’re hungry,” he declared. “We’ll go to Morocco with the clear goal of defending our title. We know it’ll be tough, there will be very good teams, but we’ll do everything we can to achieve it. 

“This victory allows us to prepare well for the World Cup. That was a goal we set for ourselves after our title: to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations and the World Cup, then defend our crown. The first part is accomplished.”

With their ticket to North America secured, Ivory Coast now turn their attention to maintaining their continental dominance — a mission that, under Faé’s guidance, looks more achievable than ever.