Cote d'Ivoire head coach Emerse Fae has voiced frustration after his side's defeat to Germany at the FIFA World Cup 2026, admitting the Elephants squandered enough chances to have secured a different outcome.

The two-time African champions made an encouraging start, going ahead through Franck Kessié, but failed to build on that advantage. Germany responded after half-time, with substitute Deniz Undav netting twice to hand the Europeans a place in the Round of 32.

Missed chances and lack of decisiveness

Fae acknowledged that his players lacked the composure required to double their lead when opportunities presented themselves, pointing to a difference in experience as a key factor.