Ivory Coast vs. Gambia: A Crucial Clash in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers

Match Overview

• Fixture: Ivory Coast vs. Gambia

• Date and Time: March 24, 2025, at 7:00 PM UTC

• Venue: Stade Olympique Alassane Ouattara, Abidjan, Ivory Coast

• Competition: FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers – CAF Group F

As the race for a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup intensifies, Ivory Coast and Gambia prepare to battle in a pivotal qualifier. Both teams are eager to secure crucial points to advance their position in Group F.

Group F Standings

Ivory Coast, coming off their triumph in the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations, enters the match as favorites. Meanwhile, Gambia seeks to upset the odds and improve their standing in a competitive group. A victory for either side could significantly impact their qualification hopes.

Broadcasting Channels

Fans worldwide can catch the action live through various broadcasting networks:

• beIN Sports HD 1

• Sport TV1 Portugal

• Diema Sport 2 HD

• SuperSport Maximo 1

• Digi Sport 2 HD Romania

With these platforms covering the match, supporters won't miss a second of the action.

Team Profiles

Ivory Coast

• Recent Form: The Elephants have been in outstanding form, showcasing their dominance in African football. Their recent performances in both qualifiers and the AFCON tournament highlight their strength.

• Key Players:

  • Sébastien Haller – The Borussia Dortmund striker remains Ivory Coast’s main attacking threat.

  • Franck Kessié – The midfield powerhouse currently playing for Al-Ahli brings experience and leadership.

  • Wilfried Zaha – A dynamic winger with the ability to change the course of a match.

Gambia

• Recent Form: Gambia has shown flashes of brilliance in recent competitions but faces a tough challenge against a well-organized Ivorian squad.

• Key Players:

  • Assan Ceesay – The striker has been Gambia’s leading goal scorer and a crucial figure in their attacking play.

  • Ebrima Darboe – The Roma midfielder brings energy and vision to the team’s playmaking.

  • Omar Colley – The experienced center-back leads the defensive unit and provides stability.

Market Value Comparison

Ivory Coast boasts a significantly higher squad value, with players competing in top European leagues. Their squad market value is estimated to be around €350 million, while Gambia’s squad value is considerably lower at €25 million. This contrast highlights the financial and talent disparity between the two teams.

Tactical Analysis

Ivory Coast’s Approach

• Likely to dominate possession and press high up the field.

• Focus on using their pace on the wings and creative midfield play.

• Defensive solidity, leveraging their experienced backline.

Gambia’s Strategy

• Expected to adopt a defensive approach, relying on counter-attacks.

• Utilizing their physicality to disrupt Ivory Coast’s rhythm.

• Focus on set-pieces as an opportunity to score against a stronger opponent.

Match Expectations and Predictions

Ivory Coast enters the game as clear favorites given their experience, squad depth, and home advantage. However, Gambia has the potential to surprise, especially if they capitalize on defensive mistakes or set-piece opportunities.

Predicted Score: Ivory Coast 3-1 Gambia

Conclusion

The match between Ivory Coast and Gambia is set to be an exciting encounter with high stakes in the race for World Cup qualification. Ivory Coast looks to maintain their dominance, while Gambia aims to defy the odds and secure a valuable result.

FAQs

1. Where can I watch the Ivory Coast vs. Gambia match?

   • The match will be available on beIN Sports HD 1, Sport TV1 Portugal, Diema Sport 2 HD, SuperSport Maximo 1, and Digi Sport 2 HD Romania.

2. Who are the key players to watch?

   • Ivory Coast: Sébastien Haller, Franck Kessié, Wilfried Zaha.

   • Gambia: Assan Ceesay, Ebrima Darboe, Omar Colley.

3. What is at stake in this match?

   • Both teams need crucial points to strengthen their position in Group F and increase their chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

4. What are the recent performances of the two teams?

   • Ivory Coast has been in great form, especially after winning AFCON. Gambia has struggled but remains determined to pull off an upset.

5. What are the expected tactics for this game?

   • Ivory Coast will look to dominate possession and play an attacking game, while Gambia is expected to sit deep and counter-attack when possible.