Ivory Coast head into their second Africa Cup of Nations qualifying group match against Somalia with the chance to take control of Group C, carrying the confidence of an opening-day victory over Ghana.
The Elephants began their campaign with three points after overcoming Ghana without major difficulty and now aim to build early momentum against Somalia. The fixture represents another step in a national project that has generated considerable optimism, with the 2026 World Cup described as the starting point for a wider ambition.
Yan Diomande has emerged as the central figure in that plan, with Ivory Coast looking to him to drive the side forward as they pursue qualification for the Africa Cup of Nations finals.
There is also a new chapter on the bench. French-born coach Hervé Renard has returned to international management in Africa, taking charge of Ivory Coast for his latest assignment after a long career with national teams.
The starting line-ups for Somalia and Ivory Coast are still awaited ahead of kick-off.
