2026 World Cup qualifiers: Côte d'Ivoire edges Burundi to reclaim top spot in Group F | OneFootball

The Elephants retake first place with a narrow but crucial victory.

2026 World Cup qualifiers: Côte d'Ivoire edges Burundi to reclaim top spot in Group F

Côte d'Ivoire defeated Burundi 1-0 this Friday, September 5, at the Félix Houphouët-Boigny Stadium in Abidjan. This win, secured on matchday 7 of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, allows the Elephants to reclaim the top spot in Group F.

Emerse Faé’s side did just enough against a Burundian Swallows team determined to defend. Vakoum Bayo, the Ivorian striker, broke the deadlock in the 3rd minute, providing his team with an early lead that ultimately proved decisive. Despite their efforts to widen the gap, the Elephants were unable to capitalize on their chances.

With this win over Burundi, the Elephants return to the top of Group F with 19 points on the board. Côte d'Ivoire now leads Gabon by a single point (18 points), their next opponent in matchday 8. That clash against the Panthers is already shaping up to be a decisive showdown for direct qualification to the 2026 World Cup.