Ivory Coast’s national team have climbed two places in the latest FIFA rankings released on July 20, 2026. After exiting the 2026 World Cup at the Round of 16 stage, the Elephants now sit 31st worldwide with 1565.47 points. The rise puts them ahead of every other African side except Morocco and Egypt, who finished 12th and 15th respectively. Their 19th-place finish at the World Cup marked the third-best African performance behind only the two semi-finalists from the continent. Last result: Ivory Coast 1-2 Norway (2026-06-30).

What does Ivory Coast’s new FIFA ranking mean?

The Elephants’ jump from 33rd to 31st in the FIFA rankings reflects the points earned during the 2026 World Cup. Their 1565.47 total places them just behind Morocco (1620.34) and Egypt (1580.12), confirming their status among Africa’s elite. The ranking boost also gives Ivory Coast a stronger seed in future World Cup and Cup of Nations draws, reducing the risk of facing top seeds in the group stage.

Why does this ranking matter for Ivory Coast’s future?

A top-35 spot improves Ivory Coast’s seeding in upcoming qualifiers and finals. It also strengthens their hand in the CAN 2027 qualifiers, where every point counts toward securing a top-seed berth. Manager Emerse Faé and his players have shown they can compete with Africa’s best, even in a tough World Cup.

What’s next for the Elephants?

The next FIFA rankings update arrives on October 7, 2026. Before then, Ivory Coast will turn their focus to CAN 2027 qualifiers. They’ll aim to build on their 2026 momentum and lock in a top seed for the group-stage draw. The qualification schedule will be released soon, with tough tests expected against high-level African opponents.

How does Ivory Coast compare to their African rivals?

With their 31st-place ranking, Ivory Coast now sits above every other African side except Morocco and Egypt. Their Round of 16 exit was still the third-best African performance at the 2026 World Cup. Under Faé, the Elephants are rebuilding with purpose, ready to challenge for continental and global honors.