Former France international and 1998 World Cup winner, Marcel Desailly, has named Côte d’Ivoire as the African country most likely to reach the final of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The football legend made this prediction while speaking in Abidjan during the FIFA World Cup Trophy Tour, organised by FIFA and presented by Coca-Cola.

Desailly pointed to the expanded format of the tournament, which will feature 48 teams, as a major opportunity for Africa. He noted that nine African nations have qualified for the competition, increasing the continent’s chances of producing a finalist. He recalled Morocco’s historic semi-final run at the last World Cup as proof that African teams can now compete at the highest level.

While tipping Ivory Coast because of their quality and potential, the Ghana-born former defender also expressed a personal wish for his country of birth. He said he would love to see Ghana reach the final, highlighting the nation’s deep passion for football and its strong football culture. His comments reflected both professional analysis and emotional connection.

The 2026 World Cup will be hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada, with African nations such as Egypt, Morocco, Ghana, Tunisia, Ivory Coast, DR Congo, Senegal, South Africa and Algeria set to represent the continent. Nigeria will miss the tournament after failing to qualify, and their hope of compensation through the Africa Cup of Nations also ended in disappointment following a semi-final loss to host nation Morocco.