Zlatan picks Ivory Coast as African team to watch in World Cup 2026 knockout
Former Sweden striker Zlatan Ibrahimović has identified Ivory Coast as the African team to watch in the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Speaking on Fox after Ivory Coast’s 2‑0 victory over Curacao secured their place in the Round of 32, Ibrahimović said the Elephants played a strong game against Germany and could have earned a draw or even a win, showing they possess quality that makes them dangerous opponents.
This assessment matters for African football fans because it highlights the growing competitiveness of African sides on the world stage. Ivory Coast’s performance suggests they could advance far in the tournament, potentially facing other African teams or influencing the path of teams like Nigeria in future competitions. It also signals that African talent is being recognized by global stars, which may boost interest and support for the continent’s football programs.
As the knockout stage approaches, will you follow Ivory Coast’s matches to see if they live up to Zlatan’s praise, or will you focus on other African contenders? Consider how their success might affect your own support, betting choices, or expectations for African teams in upcoming World Cups.