Ivory Coast Makes Triumphant Return to World Cup After 12 Years

Ivory Coast returned to football’s biggest stage with authority on October 14, 2025, by securing a resounding 3-0 victory over Kenya’s Harambee Stars in Abidjan. This result sealed their qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, ending a 12-year absence from the tournament. Spearheaded by the dynamic Yan Diomande, the Elephants dominated Kenya from the first whistle, demonstrating why they are among Africa’s elite.

Early Breakthrough and Dominance

The match was set on a decisive tone within the first 10 minutes. Franck Kessié, known for his midfield prowess, opened the scoring in the 7th minute. His goal stemmed from a sharp attack orchestrated by winger Amad Diallo, whose pace caused constant problems for Kenya’s defense. The early lead allowed Ivory Coast to control the tempo and dictate play for much of the match.

Yan Diomande’s Star Performance

Diomande was the standout player, tormenting Kenya’s backline with his speed, flair, and intelligent movement. His ability to win key duels and break lines was pivotal. In the 54th minute, Diomande doubled the score with a clinical finish that crushed Kenya’s hopes of a comeback.

His influence extended beyond scoring, frequently creating dangerous opportunities—including setting up chances for teammate Nicolas Pepe, who tested the Kenyan goalkeeper on multiple occasions.

Amad Diallo’s Spectacular Free Kick

To cap off the victory, Amad Diallo scored a stunning free kick in the 84th minute. His curling effort over the wall and into the net was a perfect example of technical excellence, leaving Kenya’s goalkeeper helpless and confirming Ivory Coast’s dominant win.

Tactical and Team Overview

Ivory Coast showcased an exceptional blend of tactical discipline and attacking prowess. The midfield pairing of Kessié and Ibrahim Sangaré provided both defensive cover and attacking support, controlling the game’s rhythm.

Against a team that completed 10 group matches unbeaten—with 8 wins and 2 draws—Kenya’s efforts to halt Ivory Coast’s progress fell short. The Elephants’ organized defense limited Kenya’s attacking threat, while their rapid transitions and sharp passing exposed Kenyan weaknesses.

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Match Summary

Event	Detail
Date	October 14, 2025
Venue	Stade Olympique Alassane Ouattara, Abidjan
Final Score	Ivory Coast 3 – 0 Kenya
Goals	Franck Kessié (7′), Yan Diomande (54′), Amad Diallo (84′ free kick)
Referee	TBD
Attendance	TBD

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Statistical Comparison

Statistic	Ivory Coast	Kenya
Possession	62%	38%
Shots (On Target)	15 (8)	5 (1)
Pass Accuracy	87%	72%
Corners	7	3
Fouls	10	14
Yellow Cards	1	3

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Group F Final Standings

Position	Team	Pld	W	D	L	GF	GA	GD	Pts
1	Ivory Coast	10	8	2	0	28	3	+25	26
2	Gabon	10	8	1	1	20	7	+13	25
3	Gambia	10	4	1	5	13	4	+9	13
4	Kenya	10	3	3	4	15	11	+4	12
5	Burundi	10	3	1	6	11	11	0	10
6	Seychelles	10	0	0	10	1	52	-51	0

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Looking Forward

Ivory Coast’s emphatic qualification signals a resurgence of the Elephants on the international scene. Their tactical coherence, individual talents, and teamwork position them as one of Africa’s favorites going into the 2026 World Cup.

Kenya’s campaign, though ending in disappointment, showed promise in earlier qualifiers but ultimately fell short against stronger opposition. For coach Benni McCarthy and his Harambee Stars, the focus will now shift to development and regrouping for future competitions.

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This commanding 3-0 win was an emphatic statement by Ivory Coast, led by Yan Diomande’s inspired performance, restoring their place among African football’s elite on the world’s biggest stage.