EXCLUSIVE: Ivory Coast’s Fae fires warning to Germany and reveals selection headache

Ivory Coasts national team, the Elephants, will launch their tournament bid versus Ecuador, then confront the four time world champions in their next group fixture at Torontos BMO Field. They seek a prolonged stay in the event.

The countries have clashed just once in senior internationals. Lukas Podolski netted a brace as the European and African outfits shared a 2-2 stalemate in a November 18, 2009 friendly in Stuttgart.

Encouraged by strong March triumphs over South Korea and Scotland, the ex CAF Coach of the Year views his squads progress as timely.

In an interview with Flashscore, Fae affirmed that the African title holders will not adopt a defensive stance versus the Germans. He emphasised that his charges will tackle the encounter with assurance and conviction, not trepidation.

"Regarding our strategy, I do not wish for the side to hold back and adopt excessive caution," stated the 42 year old.

"Such an approach does not align with my coaching style. I harbour no fear of any rival, Germany included. I desire for us to compete with boldness, advance, and seek goals instead of merely protecting the goal and depending on breaks."

For context, Germany enters in excellent shape, with Julian Nagelsmanns group securing victories in their previous seven outings across competitions.

Fae discusses takeaways from South Korea and Scotland encounters

Ahead of the March internationals in England, Fae and his group endured sharp criticism after a lacklustre display at the Africa Cup of Nations 2025.

Yet, the Elephants delivered robust showings against World Cup qualifiers, blending offensive flair with enhanced backline solidity.

Looking back on those games, Fae noted that the primary goal involved locating equilibrium between shielding and striking.

He further conceded that choosing the definitive roster poses a challenge, given numerous athletes have elevated their games and earned spots.

"The principal insight from those two fixtures is our capacity to excel in defence and offence," he proceeded.

"In World Cup qualifying, we maintained firmness at the rear yet faltered in netting. During AFCON in Morocco, scoring came readily, but we leaked excessively.

"Thus, our intent in these outings centred on achieving parity, matching our forward strength with defensive resilience, a goal we met.

"Much hinges on collective morale, which remained high once more. Securing these wins elevates self belief, yet complicates choices, with various players proving their worth for the 26 man World Cup roster."

Fae continued: "Our current group is solid. Across the recent pair of fixtures, we preserved two shutouts, a vital aspect for us.

"Post AFCON, we tallied goals freely but surrendered too often. Strengthening our defence proved essential, and I am delighted with the squads reaction.

"Numerous athletes merit inclusion at the World Cup, although only 26 spots exist. This renders it a challenging call for the staff.

"Still, such dilemmas surpass those of lacking talent. It highlights the robustness and variety in our lineup."

Fae: Kessies expertise essential for Ivory Coast

Manager Fae has backed his ongoing dependence on Franck Kessie, asserting the playmakers seasoned input stays key to Ivory Coasts setup.

Certain analysts have challenged the coaches faith in the ex AC Milan and FC Barcelona standout, citing worries over his speed.

The former Nice and Nantes player clarified that Kessies contributions extend past bodily traits. He portrayed the Al Ahli operator as a pivotal presence, serving not just as skipper but as a guiding force.

"Certainly, seasoned play matters. Reaching 29 or 30 ought not pose an issue," Fae appended.

"Victorious World Cup campaigns demand more than youthful ensembles alone, an impossibility. Examining elite sides like France or Brazil reveals blends of fresh talent and veterans. Hence, I fail to see why years served should concern."

Queried on his ambitions for the major spectacle, he remarked: "For a while now, particularly following events in Ivory Coast during AFCON 2023, I have held that African squads must foster greater self confidence, possessing the skill to accomplish remarkable feats.

"I hold that Ivory Coast possesses the capability for notable deeds. We enter the competition intent on triumphing in each clash, progressing step by step, and advancing maximally. Why not target the ultimate stage?"

Prior to the FIFA World Cup 2026, Ivory Coasts senior football side will face the two time world champions France in a June 4 friendly in Nantes.