National Team Diary – Day 8 | Seychelles national team players return from Abidjan
LIVE Updates – 18:00
Our national team has returned to Seychelles! The diary of the national team comes to a close for now. Thank you for your incredible support, and we’ll see you next time! 🇸🇨
LIVE Updates – 12:40
Carlos Simeon Opens Up: National Team Experience and More – Exclusive Interview with Seysoccer
LIVE Updates – 08:30
Good morning! The Seychelles national team players are making their way back home after their journey in the World Cup 2026 Qualifiers. Despite facing two defeats in the past days, our young team has shown tremendous progress. In the second match, it became evident that the players were grasping the instructions from their coaches and displaying an improved understanding of the game. Looking ahead, our next two games in the World Cup Qualifiers are scheduled for June 2024 against Gambia and Burundi, while the remaining six games will take place in 2025.
Currently, our team is en route from Ethiopia, making their way back to Seychelles.
Rohan Orphe (Rovers FC)
For me, it has been a great journey with the national team. I’ve gained a lot of experience these past few weeks, training with a former professional goalkeeper. It’s a dream come true for me. He helped me realize the potential I have to go further in football. Now, I have a better understanding of what I need to do to reach my full potential. We are a young team with a lot of potential, and we need to trust the process to fulfill it. We need our nation to get behind us.
Helton Monnaie (La Passe FC)
I’m happy as we managed to make more passes in the second game. In football, everything is possible. We are highly motivated, and we are still working hard to move forward.
National Team Diary – Day 7 | Team improved ball possession
LIVE Updates – 10:25
LIVE Updates – 10:15
Seychelles Men’s team FIFA Rankings update! We’re now 196th in the world, with Somalia overtaking us. Our focus on developing young talent is evident. This is just the beginning, and we’re confident our determined team will rise again.
LIVE Updates – 10:05
As a reward, the Kenyan team will share a total of KSh 2 million (Approx. 175,000 SCR) for their outstanding efforts.
LIVE Updates – 09:35
According to stats analyst websites, the highest rated players in the match were:
Kenya: M. Olunga (8.9) and M. Choka (8.3)
Seychelles: H. Monay (6.1), Imra R. (5.9), and C. Simeon (5.3)
LIVE Updates – 09:30
Seychelles stepping up their game with a more aggressive approach on the field!
LIVE Updates – 09:20
Seychelles 0-5 Kenya | World Cup Qualifiers (Group F)
Seychelles faced a difficult beginning to their Group F campaign, suffering a record-breaking 9-0 loss against Ivory Coast in Abidjan during the African World Cup Qualifiers. Despite a 2-1 defeat to Gabon in their opener, Engin Firat’s squad exhibited unwavering determination and fought back with great spirit.
Michael Olunga opened the scoring just three minutes into the game, taking advantage of a defensive mistake. He doubled his tally soon after, capitalizing on another Seychelles error.
Kenya continued their relentless attack, keeping Seychelles pinned in their own half. Masoud Juma extended the lead just before halftime, while Rooney Onyango and Benson Omalla added two more goals in the second half.
Although Kenya pushed for more, some wayward passing and saves from Seychelles goalkeeper Carlos Simeon prevented further goals.
With this victory, Kenya climbed to third place in the group standings, trailing Ivory Coast and Gabon. Seychelles, on the other hand, find themselves at the bottom after conceding 14 goals in their first two matches.
Seychelles Starting XI: C. Siméon, H. Monnaie, G. Waye-Hive, L. Panayi, M. Payet, M. Bristol-Cissoko, E. Sopha, N. Labiche, R. Damoo, I. Raheriniaina, R. Henriette
Substitutes: K. Nourrice, N. Bibi, B. Labrosse, M. Adrienne, F. Renaud, M. Freminot, L. Ernesta, B. Esparon, S. Ladouce, S. Morgan, R. Orphe, S. Larue
Statistical Highlights:
Ball Possession: Seychelles 28% – 72% Kenya
Shots on Target: Seychelles 1 – 10 Kenya
Shots off Target: Seychelles 1 – 10 Kenya
Corners: Seychelles 2 – 8 Kenya
Goalkeeper Saves: Seychelles 7 – 1 Kenya
Dangerous Attacks: Seychelles 34 – 108 Kenya
LIVE Updates: 08:45
El Hadary shines with 2 assists in just 30 minutes as Madagascar secures victory over Chad. Impressive contribution from the Saint Michel FC player.
National Team Diary – Day 6 | Game day! Let’s see what we can do against Kenya!
LIVE Updates – 01:35
LIVE Updates – 22:15
“We are going to win, there is no question about that” Head coach Engin Firat said.
LIVE Updates – 22:10
Greetings from the main field, sent by the boys of Rovers FC!
LIVE Updates – 22:00
Here is what midfielder Antony Akumu had to say about the match with Seychelles:
‘’We have another chance to make it better against Seychelles we are not underrating them and we will be going for the maximum points and we will do all we can to get the three points.
LIVE Updates – 21:45
Pre-match vibes at the stadium as players unwind. Gervais Waye-Hive is ready, let the game begin!
LIVE Updates – 17:05
Seychelles – Kenya | Simply click on the photo below, and you will be redirected to their live stream page. Please note that the stream will start 2 minutes before kick-off:
Chad – Madagascar | To watch El Hadary (Saint Michel FC) playing for Madagascar against Chad, click on the photo below to access the live stream link: Please note that the stream will start 2 minutes before kick-off:
LIVE Updates – 14:30
Kenya’s anticipated starting XI for tonight’s match against Seychelles:
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Goalkeeper – Patrick Matasi:
Matasi’s impressive performance in the previous match makes him the likely choice to start against Seychelles. As Engin Firat’s trusted goalkeeper, he will play a crucial role in ensuring a solid defense.
Right back – Amos Nondi (Ararat Armenia)
Despite a somewhat shaky display, Nondi’s assist in the last match earns him a probable starting spot at right back. With Seychelles expected to pose less threat on the flanks, Nondi’s presence will be valuable.
Centre backs – Johnstone Omurwa and Dennis Ng’ang’a (Estrela de Amadora & Mahia)
Omurwa, the only fully fit preferred defender, is expected to retain his place despite a missed interception leading to a goal. Ng’ang’a, eager for his first win with Harambee Stars, will aim to impress and secure future call-ups.
Left back – Abud Omar (Police FC)
With Erick Marcelo Ouma’s injury, Omar’s experience is vital at left back. He will play a crucial role in guiding Harambee Stars towards victory.
Central midfielders – Richard Odada and Teddy Akumu (Aalborg & Sagan Tosu)
Odada’s consistent presence in midfield under Firat’s guidance makes him a likely starter. Akumu, Odada’s long-standing partner, is expected to retain his position as well.
Right winger – Rooney Onyango (Mahia)
Onyango’s impressive performances in recent matches make him a strong candidate to start on the right wing. His crossing ability and overall contribution have made him one of Kenya’s standout players.
Left winger – Masoud Juma (El Jadidi)
Juma’s scoring form in his last two appearances ensures his place as a left winger. Firat values his ability to take on opponents, adding a dynamic element to the team’s attack.
Striker – Michael Olunga (Al-Duhail)
Despite facing criticism for his goal drought, Olunga will lead the attack against Seychelles, hoping to find the back of the net and regain his scoring form.
Attacking midfielder – Duke Abuya (Singida Gate)
Abuya may be favored over Kenneth Muguna in the number 10 role, as Firat seeks to inject creativity into the team. His inclusion aims to secure Firat’s first win in charge since the game against Qatar.
LIVE Updates – 14:25
Insights from world sports portals on upcoming match: With an impeccable head-to-head record, winning four out of five meetings against Seychelles, Harambee Stars enters their upcoming match with high expectations. The last encounter in 2015 saw Kenya secure a 2-0 victory. Kenyan fans are confident in their team’s abilities and eagerly anticipate another successful performance.
LIVE Updates – 14:05
Darrel Damoo (Saint Louis FC): With our young amateur team against the professionals of Ivory Coast, a loss was certain, although I did not envision it to that margin. However, plenty of exposure and experience was amassed by the boys especially for the majority of the team debuting for Seychelles in that match. Going forward, I would urge each and every player to take this as a learning curve and move forward to the next match ahead.
Our Team needs to keep more possession of the ball and move our opponents using the same and build confidence on perfecting individual mistakes so as to progress collectively. I have no doubt this has been a talking point within the camp and I am hopeful that betterment is inbound from our boys. #AllezSesel🇸🇨
LIVE Updates – 12:40
Majid Freminot: Based on my own perception, I can say that we are not focusing on the negative side of the game but rather looking forward to achieving more in our team objectives. As a young team, we will continue to work hard and anticipate good things coming our way, both for ourselves and our country. Ale Sesel!
LIVE Updates – 12:15
Gervais Waye-Hive sends a special voice message to our Seychelles supporters via Seysoccer News!
LIVE Updates – 10:25
Rhio Damoo: Overall, the experience I’m going through now has actually made me think about my life. I’ve been asking myself if this is how professional players live their lives. It is truly motivating for me. Now, I want to work hard and focus on every detail to propel myself forward. I want to play and live that kind of life now! (laughs) I also aspire to play abroad and become a big deal too.
LIVE Updates – 09:55
LIVE Updates – 09:50
Read full interview | Gervais Waye-Hive: It was one of the toughest games I have ever played for the Seychelles national team
LIVE Updates – 08:50
We’ve gathered 10+ captivating photos from yesterday, highlighting the best shared on social media.
LIVE Updates – 08:45
Good morning! Today is matchday! Seychelles, playing at home, takes on Kenya tonight in Ivory Coast!
Our team is energised and ready for the upcoming match. Positive feedback pours in about our recovery sessions and tips. The French therapist has made a lasting impression on our players.
In our group, Gabon secured a victory over Burundi yesterday.
Stay tuned for captivating photos as we share our journey.
National Team Diary – Day 5 | Preparing for Tomorrow’s Match with Kenya
LIVE Updates – 18:55
Elie Sopha: We have successfully achieved one of our objectives, which has given the team faith that it is not impossible to accomplish everything we set out for. This serves as a win for us and a great start to our project.
LIVE Updates – 17:05
Today, in Round 2 of our group, Burundi and Gambia face off, both teams having secured victories in Round 1
LIVE Updates – 16:55
Carlos Simeon: Appreciate all the love I have received out here in Ivory Coast means a lot for myself.
LIVE Updates – 16:50
An exclusive interview with Lucas Panayi, Ryan Henriette, and Nick Labiche as they reflect on the recent World Cup qualifiers match Ivory Coast and Seychelles. Discover their insights on recovery, and the invaluable support from the coaching staff. Get the inside scoop straight from the players themselves! Click here for the full.
LIVE Updates – 16:05
Lucas Panayi: While getting the chance to play against top players, it was a pleasure meeting a group of boys from the orphanage with over 200 kids.
The energy they carry is heart touching and teaches us many lessons. Never take anything for granted.
LIVE Updates – 15:45
Majid Freminot: We keep trusting the process and keep pushing harder. Ale Sesel!
LIVE Updates – 15:40
Ryan Henriette addresses the notable gap in strength and power between the teams.
Ryan Henriette (Foresters FC)
Yes, I think those guys in front of us had a huge advantage. They seemed like robots. However, this is something we will work on. When we return to Seychelles, the whole team will focus on gym training to level the playing field.
Regarding support, the player highlights the varying opinions among Seychellois towards the team.
Ryan Henriette (Foresters FC)
For me as a player, I don’t really bother with what people say about the team because, in my opinion, Seychellois don’t support each other. Not all Seychellois, though. There are some who trust this process and like the idea that Seychelles is preparing a team for the future. However, there are many who speak negatively about the team.
Click here for the full interview.
LIVE Updates – 15:25
Nicke Labiche shares his unique experience, the team’s recovery, goals, and the immense support received from teammates.
Nick Labiche (Rovers FC)
The experience was one of a kind. Surprisingly, I did not feel any real jitters, just excitement and the need to play at this level. The team’s recovery has been superb. We have received some good advice from our doctor and therapist, and it has certainly helped a lot. The team’s goal is to improve our play and capture as much as possible from these matches so that we can perform even better next time as a team. My team has given me and the other players so much support, and they always stay up to date with us, which is very, very good to see.
Click here for the full interview.
LIVE Updates – 15:15
Ivory Coast – Seychelles | Match Highlights
LIVE Updates – 14:55
LIVE Updates – 14:30
Lucas Panayi (Rovers FC)
Lucas Panayi: It was tough but yet great experience to play against these top players especially as such a young team. A story to tell for the future.
Seysoccer: How was the experience playing against a top-level team?
Lucas Panayi: It was tough but yet great experience to play against these top players especially as such a young team. A story to tell for the future.
Seysoccer: What is the team’s recovery plan after the challenging match?
Lucas Panayi: Our recovery plan is very specific as it should be, very much involving various aspects such as a recovery training session with active dynamic movements to help remove all the lactic acidosis build up. Also use of compression machines, massages and massage guns.
Seysoccer: What lessons did the team learn from playing against such a high-level team?
Lucas Panayi: The speed of moving the ball, remaining calm and that anything is possible based on our personal objectives set by the team.
Click here for the full interview.
Seysoccer stands in full support of Lucas Panayi for his unwavering determination throughout the 100+ minutes on the field against Ivory Coast. Your fighting spirit is commendable!
LIVE Updates – 12:25
Seysoccer sends warm wishes for a fantastic 19th birthday to Imra Raheriniaina!
LIVE Updates – 10:30
Hello everyone! We have exciting updates from the national team to share with you. Yesterday, our delegation and players generously donated school supplies to the Bingerville Boys Orphanage, spreading joy and support to the community. In the afternoon, some players focused on recovery, receiving revitalising massages to aid their healing process. Today, we had the opportunity to catch up with our players and hear about their experiences in Ivory Coast. .
National Team Diary – Day 4 | Young team’s fighting spirit deserves credit against world-class opponent
LIVE Updates – 23:10
Markus Payet (La Passe FC) had a strong performance yesterday, particularly in the first half when our players faced intense pressure from the Ivory Coast team. Well done, Markus!
LIVE Updates – 22:50
Reflecting on last night’s defeat, the Seychelles Football Federation (SFF) acknowledged the formidable quality of Ivory Coast’s players. However, they remain focused on their long-term project with this young team.
LIVE Updates – 20:00
Gervais Waye-Hive: Tough game last night against a very strong Ivory Coast side. Lots to learn from that match. There is always room for improvement and we will keep on working hard as a team.
LIVE Updates – 18:45
Unforgettable moments from last night’s match captured across social media:
LIVE Updates – 12:15
Ryan Henriette: I am grateful, Lord, for the opportunity to play against the best. Not everyone gets this chance. Thank you.
LIVE Updates – 12:10
Carlos Simeon: Last night’s result was tough to swallow against Ivory Coast, one of the best African footballing nations. Our young and inexperienced team will learn from this and bounce back stronger.
LIVE Updates – 12:05
Our players are taking extra rest today after a long day and a tough match last night. This level of competition is new for them. We’ve decided to delay post-match comments to give them more time for recovery. Stay tuned!
LIVE Updates – 10:30
In a World Cup qualifier match, Ivory Coast achieved a 9-0 victory over Seychelles in Abidjan, setting a new record for the largest winning margin in an African qualifier. The mismatch was evident as Group F’s matchday one paired the top-ranked teams against the bottom-ranked ones due to the seedings for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers in Africa.
With a considerable ranking difference, Seychelles sits at 195th position in the FIFA rankings, a significant 121 places below Ivory Coast. It comes as no surprise that the outcome of the match was in line with this notable disparity.
Football is a sport that operates on various levels, and Ivory Coast has consistently dominated the top tier for more than a decade. Hence, it was no surprise to witness a high-scoring match. Our aim was to score a goal, but we must refrain from blaming our players. The substantial gap between the two teams is undeniable, emphasising the importance of further developing football in Seychelles for future growth and competitiveness.
- Seychelles Starting XI: #23 C. Simeon, #16 B. Esparon, #37 S. Ladouce, #13 K. Nourice, #8 Lucas Panayi, #15 M. Payet, #20 I. Raheriniaina, #6 E. Sopha, #2 G. Waye-Hive, #17 Ryan Henriette, #7 B. Labrosse
- Substitutes: #22 M. Freminot, #21 S. Larue, #9 R. Damoo, #18 R. Orphe, #11 N. Bibi, #5 H. Monay, #4 S. Morgan, #19 N. Labiche, #10 L. Ernesta, #3 M. Cissoko, #14 F. Renaud, #1 M. Adrienne
Statistical Highlights:
- Ball Possession: Ivory Coast 68% – 32% Seychelles
- Shots on Target: Ivory Coast 9 – 0 Seychelles
- Shots off Target: Ivory Coast 17 – 0 Seychelles
- Corners: Ivory Coast 14 – 1 Seychelles
- Dangerous Attacks: Ivory Coast 126 – 10 Seychelles
According to football game analysis websites, our goalkeeper Carlos Simeon stood out as the top performer. He made an impressive achievement by saving 9 shots on target, earning a high rating of 3.6. His exceptional performance played a crucial role in the game.
Our team gave their all in the match, surpassing their limits with every player on the field. Despite the wide gap in levels, we managed to keep a clean sheet for 20 minutes. Unfortunately, there was a mistake by referee Adalbert Diouf from Senegal, resulting in an undeserved penalty for Ivory Coast. Out of the three penalties awarded, the second one was a controversial decision. Winning was a distant possibility, but our focus now shifts to the game against Kenya, who performed well against Gabon.
National Team Diary – Day 3 | Best of luck, boys! It’s match day!
LIVE Updates – 02:05
LIVE Updates – 00:05
At half-time, Seychelles is trailing 4-0 Ivory Coast. The level of Ivory Coast is dominant, but our team shows promise. Unfortunately, 1 of 2 penalties was gifted to Ivory Coast by the referee. Among our players, Markus Payet from La Passe FC stands out. Keep fighting, Seychelles!
LIVE Updates – 22:50
Click here to watch LIVE stream!
LIVE Updates – 22:40
LIVE Updates – 16:45
Another day, another round of CAF #FIFAWorldCup qualifier action! 🤩
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) November 17, 2023
Follow the games LIVE on FIFA+! 📺
LIVE Updates – 16:25
A player from Saint Michel FC has offered their perspective on the team’s upcoming match, highlighting the importance of focus and determination:
Josip Ravignia (Saint Michel FC)
I think they should stay focused and have determination in the game because it’s not an easy game. Allez Sesel!
LIVE Update – 15:15
After suffering a knee injury on the final day of the training camp, the football player expressed his support for his teammates through U Instagram post:
Matthew Rouillon (Rovers FC)
It doesn’t get any bigger than this, boys. Let’s do it!
LIVE Updates – 13:55
Seychelles Football Federation’s Matchday Photo Revealed
𝐆𝐀𝐌𝐄𝐃𝐀𝐘 🔥
— Seychelles Football Federation (@SeyFoot_com) November 17, 2023
Ivory Coast 🇨🇮 𝙫𝙨 Seychelles 🇸🇨
🏆 @FIFAWorldCup 2026 Qualifiers
🕚 11pm (UTC+4)
📍Stade Olympique Alassane Ouattara D’Ebimpé, Abidjan#AleSesel ! 🇸🇨#CIVSEY pic.twitter.com/rbAJaZng2Z
LIVE Updates – 12:20
The players expressed their satisfaction with the way the coaching staff is handling things during team building exercises last night after their training sessions. They all agreed that they need to be brave tonight. The team’s atmosphere is positive, and they are ready to face the upcoming challenge. Last night was their final practice session before the match. They heard that around 50 thousand fans will be in the stands. Officials confirmed that there will be over 2000 police officers and volunteers ensuring security.
LIVE Updates – 11:55
Pre-Match Press Conference | Head Coach Ralph Jean-Louis Shares Insights and Objectives
Interviewer: How do you plan to approach your duel with Côte d’Ivoire with a team that was put together a short time ago?
Coach Ralph Jean-Louis: We have already participated in the qualifiers for a World Cup. However, we have never won a match. Playing against Ivory Coast is historic for us. We approach this match with complete humility, knowing that regardless of the outcome, we will consider ourselves winners if we achieve the objectives set by our team, which we have already communicated.
Interviewer: What is ultimately your objective against Ivory Coast?
Coach Ralph Jean-Louis: Before any match, the goal for every team is to secure a victory. However, we are playing against Ivory Coast, and while it is not impossible, we approach the match with a level-headed mindset. Our main objective is to score a goal against Ivory Coast, but we have other objectives that we have extensively communicated. This is a new project with a young group. It’s important to have ambitions, but we also need to be realistic.
Interviewer: You traveled with a very young team. Is this match against Ivory Coast a kind of learning experience for you?
Coach Ralph Jean-Louis: Not necessarily. We also have older players who are based in Europe and have participated in various competitions. However, it is true that we have new talents who will gain experience from this match and understand the path Seychelles needs to take to reach the level of Côte d’Ivoire.
Interviewer: We have noticed some issues surrounding the national team in the Seychelles press. Some clubs refused to release players, and some players boycotted the national team. Could these problems disrupt your work with the team?
Coach Ralph Jean-Louis: I believe that all federations face problems with their national teams. Yes, we have encountered challenges with clubs holding control over players. However, we wanted to continue with this project. After these two matches, we will try to work with the teams and have individual conversations with the players. Every country aims to have a strong team for international competitions like the World Cup.
Interviewer: We also heard that you are uncertain about leading this team after the two matches, including the one against Ivory Coast and Kenya. Do you feel you are in the right position to work with this young team for an extended period and strengthen them for the future?
Coach Ralph Jean-Louis: I agree with you. We are currently under a temporary contract for these two matches. However, like any group, we intended to establish a long-term project. This team is formed to achieve our goals within two to four years. We will assess this aspect when we return. Ultimately, it will be the federation’s decision regarding who will continue with the team.
Interviewer: Tomorrow you play against Ivory Coast, a team that you respect. How will you approach this match against a team with such quality?
Coach Ralph Jean-Louis: We will decide on the game plan during tonight’s training session. As I mentioned earlier, this is a new project, and we cannot disclose all the information. We understand that playing against Ivory Coast on their home ground will be challenging. We anticipate difficulties, but we will remain focused on our objectives and strive to leave the match with our heads held high.
LIVE Updates – 11:35
Captivating shots from Ivory Coast’s last night training session!
LIVE Updates – 11:20
The team has completed their analysis, ensuring they remember all the details and maintain high focus throughout the full 90 minutes later today:
LIVE Updates – 10:55
To watch El Hadary (Saint Michel FC) playing for Madagascar against Ghana, click on the photo below to access the live stream link:
For the live stream of the Ivory Coast – Seychelles match, FIFA+ will be broadcasting it live. Simply click on the photo below, and you will be redirected to their live stream page. Please note that the stream will start 2 minutes before kick-off:
LIVE Updates – 09:25
Good morning! It’s match day for the young Seychelles team! As the day begins, our guys are slowly waking up and making their way to a well-deserved breakfast.
Despite the rainy afternoon in Abidjan yesterday, they successfully completed their initial field sessions. To maintain their focus, we chose not to provide updates during the afternoon. Don’t worry, we’ll share the highlights once they’ve finished their task.
Our players had the incredible opportunity to meet the legendary Wilfried Bony last night. They shared a special moment and captured it with a memorable photo together.
There are rumors that due to heavy rain, both the Côte d’Ivoire and Seychelles teams will not train at the Ebimpé Stadium tomorrow. They will likely remain at their training grounds for now.
In other group matches, Burundi surprised the world by defeating Gambia, while Gabon faced an early setback, trailing 0-1 at halftime but eventually securing a 2-1 victory. Excitement is already building within the group and we eagerly await the next matches!
Stay tuned for more updates!
National Team Diary – Day 2 | Seychelles National Team kicks off their Ivory Coast campaign
LIVE Updates – 22:30
Heavy rain showers drenching the stadium where Seychelles will play in approximately 24 hours.
LIVE Update – 16:05
Players have completed their first training session at the field in Abidjan since their arrival!
LIVE Updates – 15:30
Group F kicks off today!
Gabon – Kenya
Gabon is favored in their match against Kenya. Led by Marseille’s Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Gabon’s attack features Denis Bouanga, the top scorer in the MLS, and Red Star Belgrade’s Gelor Kanga. Kenya’s key player is Michael Olunga from Al Duhail. Gabon’s recent form includes three losses and a draw.
Burundi – Gambia
In their first-ever official meeting, Burundi and Gambia face off. Gambia comes in with an unbeaten run, led by Ablie Jallow’s attacking skills. Burundi relies on Bonfils-Caleb Bimenyimana’s goal-scoring ability. It’s an exciting matchup between these two teams.
LIVE Updates – 12:45
We are reading world sports news, and now, here is what the world thinks and predicts about the upcoming match.
Ranked ninth among all African teams, Ivory Coast enters the World Cup qualifiers with high hopes of securing a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. In the previous edition, they narrowly missed out on qualification by two points, losing to Cameroon, who went on to deny Algeria a place in the tournament. However, Ivory Coast has shown improvement, reaching the last 16 of the African Nations Championship and finishing second in their AFCON qualifying group. The team is currently on an unbeaten streak, including draws against South Africa and Morocco.
While Ivory Coast is favored to win, it’s important not to overlook Seychelles. Despite recent struggles, with three consecutive losses in the COSAFA Cup, Seychelles’ players are motivated to put on a good performance and, if possible, score a goal. It’s worth noting that theirs only victory in the last 50 matches, spanning several years, came against Bangladesh in a friendly.
As the World Cup qualification campaign begins, both teams will definitely give their all. It promises to be an exciting contest between Ivory Coast’s experience and Seychelles’ determination to overcome their winless run and create an upset.
LIVE Updates – 11:40
After a long journey, players recognised the need for rest and went to bed early. They were advised by the coaching staff to get at least 8 hours of sleep and avoid using their phones before bedtime, which helps improve sleep quality.
The team’s staff has arranged a special diet plan for the players during their stay in Abidjan. Carefully selected meals will provide them with the necessary nutrition to compete at their best against their opponents.
In preparation for the matches, the team conducted video analysis sessions and held a brief meeting to discuss upcoming plans and maintain a positive mindset. The players are feeling refreshed and ready to put in the hard work required.
LIVE Updates – 09:30
Good morning! As we await our team’s morning awakening and breakfast, we are keeping a close eye on the Ivory Coast national team’s first day of training camp via their Facebook page:
National Team Diary – Day 1 | Arrival in Ethiopia, Overnight Stay, and Onward to Ivory Coast
LIVE Updates – 23:20
The Seychelles team wasted no time getting down to business after arriving at their destination. They took a moment to relax in their rooms before diving straight into work. Today’s agenda consists of light exercises to combat the effects of their long flights, followed by video analysis to refine their strategies.
One thing that stands out is the pleasant and chilled atmosphere among the players. The Seychelles team not only shows great teamwork on the field but also off the field, as seen through their interactions on social media.
Team member Nick Labiche is highly confident in the group’s motivation and performance for the upcoming games. He believes they are well-prepared and poised to give their best.
Nick Labiche (Rovers FC)
I hope to get some playing time and hopefully make an impact, even though it will be very, very difficult. But I am positive that we will do a good job.
In a light-hearted moment, Rhio Damoo, the team member who is famously devoted to his bike, jokingly mentioned that he is doing well and managing to keep his mind off his beloved two-wheeler.
The Seychelles team is looking forward to showcasing a good game and, if possible, scoring a goal against Ivory Coast, just as head coach Jean Ralph-Louis mentioned a few days ago.
End of today’s updates. See you tomorrow!
LIVE Updates – 17:30
Our team has arrived in Ivory Coast! They are all tired. Feels like they were on a marathon flight!
LIVE Updates – 11:45
Yesterday, the team left Seychelles at 5 PM and arrived in Addis Ababa (Ethiopia) around 8 PM Seychelles time. They spent the night there and this morning, they had breakfast together and took some time to relax before their next flight to Ivory Coast’s capital city.
Roommates have been chosen by the team, and this arrangement will continue throughout the rest of the trip in Ivory Coast. This decision plays a vital role in fostering a sense of camaraderie and teamwork among the group, allowing them to work together harmoniously.
The players are in a good mood, getting along nicely and enjoying each other’s company.
While airport times can be tiresome, they turned it into an enjoyable experience. Engaging in interviews, capturing social media-worthy photos, gathering, and sharing laughter, they made the most of their time together, creating memorable moments.
The next step in their journey is the flight to Ivory Coast.
LIVE Updates – 17:25
FIFA has just shared a new post on Instagram | The first round of #WeAre26 Qualifiers is upon us in Africa! 🌍
LIVE Updates – 15:45
Despite being dropped from the national team camp due to injury, Lorenzo Hoareau, a player for Foresters FC, wants to show support and send a message of encouragement to his friends and teammates.
Lorenzo Hoareau (Foresters FC)
I’m not there with them this time, and it makes me unhappy, but I know they’ll do well. Good luck, guys!
Countdown to Abidjan: Departure from Seychelles
Welcome to the Seysoccer National Team Diary! Join us as we bring you exclusive coverage and behind-the-scenes moments from the Seychelles national team camp in Abidjan. Excitement fills the air as the Seychelles national team prepares to embark on a crucial journey in the World Cup 2026 Qualifiers. The team is scheduled to face formidable opponents Ivory Coast and Kenya in the opening matches, marking a significant milestone for Seychelles football.
Under the guidance of head coach Ralph Jean-Louis, the national team enters a new era filled with hope and potential. With a youthful and talented squad, Seychelles aims to make a lasting impact on the international stage. The players are eager to showcase their skills and demonstrate the progress they’ve made.
However, the coaching staff has faced last-minute changes, leading to uncertainties. Sadly, striker Matthew Rouillon, a footballer from Rovers FC, sustained an injury just two days ago, ruling him out of the plans. Despite this setback, the team remains resilient and determined to overcome challenges.
As Seychelles sets its sights on World Cup qualification, the nation stands united in support of its national team. The journey to Abidjan signifies a defining moment in the country’s football history. Fans can expect thrilling encounters and fierce competition as the team faces off against strong opponents.
Ralph Jean-Louis (Head Coach)
We want to prepare Seychelles for the future and give some international experience to young players with the objective of performing well in the next Indian Ocean Games.
Lead coach Jean-Louis has outlined the team’s objectives for the upcoming matches. The first goal is to score at least one goal in both matches, particularly against Côte d’Ivoire, to boost the confidence of the young players and motivate them to perform better.
The second objective is for the players to cover a specific distance during the matches. Initially set at 100km, the target has been adjusted to between 70 and 80km per match, which would be a significant accomplishment.
The team’s third objective is to achieve a total of 150 passes during the match. According to Jean-Louis, these objectives are realistic, and the players have the capability to achieve them.
Seysoccer News will be there every step of the way, providing up-to-date coverage, match reports, and insightful analysis. We’ll bring you exclusive stories and interviews, giving you a glimpse into the team’s preparation and mindset.
Safe travels and best of luck to the dedicated players representing Seychelles!
Exclusive Interview with National Team Coach
Seychelles gear up to face mighty Côte d’Ivoire and Kenya in World Cup Qualifiers
Full squad list for the upcoming games
Seychelles announce 23-man squad for Ivory Coast and Kenya World Cup qualifiers
Exclusive interview with Technical Director of Seychelles Football Federation
Interview with Osama Haroun: Technical Director of Seychelles Football Federation
