Ivory Coast face Ecuador in World Cup opener

World Cup opener against Ecuador

Ivory Coast begin their 2026 World Cup campaign this week with a Group E clash against Ecuador, a match already being billed as a meeting between two potential tournament dark horses (1). The Elephants carry real momentum into the fixture after their stunning 2–1 friendly victory over France on June 7, a result that announced them as a side capable of troubling anyone. Ecuador will offer a different type of test, organized, physical, and equally ambitious about reaching the knockout stage. Your opening match could set the tone for the entire group.