Cote d’Ivoire will face Cameroon in a highly anticipated friendly at Ebimpe on Saturday, 3 October, with former international Didier Zokora expecting the hosts to claim a 2-1 victory.
The Elephants go into the match after consecutive wins against Ghana and Somalia in the CAN 2027 qualifiers. Those results have strengthened the team’s momentum under manager Herve Renard, and Zokora believes the Cameroon fixture will provide another useful test.
Although the game is not a competitive encounter, the former Cote d’Ivoire midfielder considers it an important opportunity to assess the squad against an experienced opponent. He also highlighted the chance for Renard to experiment with different combinations and give playing time to several players.
Speaking to 225foot, Zokora said the quality of the current squad has given the coach room to explore his options. The Cameroon match should therefore offer a clearer indication of the progress made by the group and how different players fit into Renard’s plans.
The fixture will also allow Cote d’Ivoire to measure its current level against a strong African side. Zokora expects a closely contested game, but believes home advantage and the Elephants’ recent form could prove decisive.
Zokora praises emerging young players
Zokora also discussed the emergence of Malick Yalcouye and Yann Gboho. Both players scored on their first appearances for the national team, marking their international debuts with an immediate contribution.
The former midfielder said their development should be managed carefully. While their early performances have attracted attention, he believes they must be supported as they continue to establish themselves, without being placed under excessive pressure.
Their progress adds another element to Renard’s selection decisions as Cote d’Ivoire prepares for the meeting with Cameroon. The friendly gives the manager an opportunity to assess the younger players alongside more experienced members of the squad.
For Zokora, the result remains important despite the match’s status. He expects Cameroon to provide a demanding challenge but sees Cote d’Ivoire’s current confidence and the advantage of playing at home as reasons to favour the Elephants.
He has consequently predicted a 2-1 win for Cote d’Ivoire.
The published match odds list Cote d’Ivoire as the favourite at 1.64. A draw is priced at 3.44, while a Cameroon victory is listed at 4.80.