Idriss Diallo motivates Ivory Coast U20 ahead of 2027 AFCON qualifiers

Ivory Coast Football Federation (FIF) president Idriss Diallo returned to the country after the 2026 World Cup final. On Sunday, July 26, 2026, he visited the U20 team in Yamoussoukro to boost their morale before their first 2027 AFCON qualifier against Benin. The senior team’s last match ended in a 1-2 loss to Norway on June 30, 2026.

What did Idriss Diallo say?

Diallo expressed confidence in the U20 squad, urging them to show determination and discipline. “I encouraged them to achieve our goal: qualification for the 2027 AFCON U20. Good luck against Benin,” he said. The U20 team plays their first match this Sunday at 2 PM at the Charles Konan Banny Stadium.

The U20 team’s journey

The UFOA-B U20 qualifying tournament runs from July 26 to August 9, 2026. Ivory Coast is in Group A with Benin and Niger. The senior team has lost their last two matches, with a record of 1 win and 4 losses in their last 5 games (LLWLL).

What’s next?

The U20 team will face Benin this Sunday, followed by matches against Niger. President Diallo emphasized the importance of this competition for the future of Ivorian football.