ivory Coast continue their AFCON 2025 title defence with renewed belief after navigating a demanding Group F campaign that mixed control with late drama.
The Elephants opened their tournament with a narrow win over Mozambique before being held by Cameroon, a result that underlined their tactical balance and resilience in tight games.
That momentum carried into a thrilling finale, where they showed championship character to overturn a two-goal deficit and finish top of the group, a result that Softfootball reported as a major statement of intent heading into the knockout phase.
Their group-stage journey was defined by composure under pressure, particularly in a dramatic late comeback that sealed top spot, while their physical strength and tactical discipline were equally evident in a hard-fought draw against Cameroon that tested their defensive structure.
Ivory Coast have since posted a video on their official X handle showing the squad returning and preparing for the round-of-16 clash, signalling focus and confidence ahead of the tie.
Historically, the Elephants carry a clear edge into this fixture, boasting three AFCON titles and an impressive seven-match unbeaten run at the finals.
Under Emerse Fae, who has earned praise for calm in-game management, Ivory Coast have blended midfield control with sharp wide play, giving them multiple attacking routes while still maintaining defensive stability.
Burkina Faso, however, arrive as stubborn opponents after a disciplined Group E campaign. The Stallions opened with a hard-fought win over Equatorial Guinea, suffered a narrow loss to Algeria, and then secured progression with a composed victory over Sudan.
Their ability to stay compact and strike on transitions makes them dangerous in knockout football, even if history has not favoured them against the Elephants at AFCON.
Team News
Ivory Coast head into the round of 16 with no fresh injury concerns after rotating heavily in their final group game. Yahia Fofana is expected to return in goal, with Guela Doue, Odilon Kossounou, Evan Ndicka and Ghislain Konan forming a familiar back line.
The midfield trio of Franck Kessie, Ibrahim Sangare and Seko Fofana should provide control and experience, while Amad Diallo, Yan Diomande and Evann Guessand are all pushing to start in attack.
Burkina Faso may have concerns in goal, with Herve Koffi a doubt after being forced off injured against Sudan, while Cyriaque Irie is also being monitored following a knock in the same match. Their selection could hinge on late fitness checks ahead of kick-off.
possible starting lineup
Ivory Coast:
Fofana; Doue, Kossounou, Ndicka, Konan; Kessie, I. Sangare, S. Fofana; Diallo, Y. Diomande, Guessand
Burkina Faso:
Koffi; Yago, Dayo, Tapsoba, Kouassi; Oueraogo, Sangare, Toure; B. Traore, Ouattara; Kabore
Softfootball Prediction
Ivory Coast 2-1 Burkina Faso. This looks set to be a tight and tactical contest, but Ivory Coastโs knockout experience and attacking depth could prove decisive. Burkina Fasoโs organisation should keep the game competitive, yet the Elephantsโ ability to find late goals may once again tilt the balance in their favour.
