Ivory Coast secured their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a commanding 3-0 victory over Kenya in the final match of Group F at the Alassane Ouattara Ebimpé Olympic Stadium in Abidjan. The win not only guaranteed their World Cup qualification but also marked their return to the prestigious tournament after missing the previous two editions in Russia and Qatar.
The match began with high intensity, and Ivory Coast wasted no time in taking the lead. Just seven minutes in, Manchester United winger Amad Diallo made a blistering run down the left flank and crossed the ball into the box. Franck Kessié was on hand to slot the ball past Kenya’s goalkeeper Byrne Omondi, giving the Ivorians an early advantage.
With the early goal setting the tone, Ivory Coast continued to dominate possession and press forward, putting the Kenyan defense under constant pressure. Despite their best efforts, Kenya struggled to break down the Ivorian defense, and as the match wore on, it became clear that Ivory Coast’s offensive strength was overwhelming.
In the 53rd minute, Ivory Coast doubled their lead through an exceptional individual effort from winger Yan Diomande. Sprinting down the left wing, Diomande evaded multiple Kenyan defenders before curling a shot beyond Omondi’s reach. The goal effectively sealed the match for the Ivorians, as Kenya was unable to mount any significant challenges.
The second half saw little improvement for Kenya, who struggled to create any attacking threats. The team managed only a single shot in the entire match, which went wide of the target. Despite making substitutions, including the introduction of Duke Abuya for Michael Olunga, Kenya was unable to break through the solid Ivorian defense.
Amad Diallo capped off a stellar performance in the 84th minute by scoring a stunning free-kick. The Ivorian winger curled the ball around the Kenyan wall and into the top corner of the net, adding a third goal to his team’s tally.
As the match came to a close, Ivory Coast celebrated their resounding 3-0 victory, with the crowd in Abidjan erupting in joy. The win ensured their qualification for the 2026 World Cup and put them in the spotlight as one of Africa’s top footballing nations.
