Emerse Fae Rues Missed Chances As Cote d’Ivoire Crash Out Of World Cup

Cote d’Ivoire head coach Emerse Fae admitted his side paid a heavy price for failing to take their chances after a 2-1 defeat to Norway ended their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign in the Round of 32.

Norway took the lead six minutes before half-time when Antonio Nusa fired home from inside the penalty area. Cote d’Ivoire responded in the 74th minute through Amad Diallo, but Erling Haaland scored the winner five minutes from time, turning in Patrick Berg’s low cross to seal Norway’s place in the Round of 16.

Fae said the Elephants had only themselves to blame after letting key opportunities slip.

“That’s football. When you get chances, you have to score. We did the hard part by equalising. Unfortunately, we conceded that goal at the end. It’s a shame. The players gave it their all and played until the very end. We were up against a spirited team that defended well and managed to secure qualification,” Fae told FIFA.com.

The coach also stressed that the experience would benefit his young squad despite the painful exit.

“At this level, it comes down to the little details. You have to stay focused from start to finish, no matter the opponent. It was everyone’s first World Cup. I think the players have learned a lot. Now, we’ll work on coming back stronger for the next challenges,” Emerse Fae added.