Côte d’Ivoire will have to cope without Wilfried Singo for their Round of 16 match against Norway in the 2026 World Cup. On the eve of this crucial encounter, coach Emerse Faé confirmed in a press conference that the defender has not recovered from his injury. However, the Elephants received excellent news with the return of Evan Ndicka, now fit to make his debut in the competition.
Speaking to the media on Monday, June 29, Emerse Faé provided a full update on his squad’s condition. The Ivorian coach confirmed that Wilfried Singo is still not fit enough to play against Norway. “We have recovered Evan Ndicka since the match against Curaçao. As for Wilfried Singo, we will have to wait and hope to see him back on the pitch soon,” the coach said, dashing hopes for his defender’s return for this vital match.
This absence is a real blow for the Elephants. Wilfried Singo was injured during the third group match against Germany. The Galatasaray right-back left the pitch in tears in the 82nd minute during Ivory Coast’s 2-1 defeat. The images of his exit immediately raised fears of a lengthy absence, a concern that has now been confirmed.
Already missing in the 2-0 victory against Curaçao, the 24-year-old defender has not managed to recover enough to participate in this knockout match. His absence deprives Emerse Faé of an important part of his defensive setup. Strong in duels, capable of providing power down the flank, and with vast experience at the highest level, Singo was one of the key assets for the Ivorian national team.
While this bad news darkens the Elephants’ preparations, the return of Evan Ndicka brings a glimmer of hope. The AS Roma defender, who has yet to play a minute since the tournament began, is now fully recovered. The medical staff has given him the green light, allowing the coach to include him in the squad for this crucial encounter.
• Wilfried Singo in recovery phase
While the rest of the group participated in the last training session, Wilfried Singo was spotted alongside one of the fitness coaches doing a jog. He was in trainers.
The Galatasaray defender will therefore not be in the… pic.twitter.com/RsS1vW8oFT
— Chroniques 225 (@Chroniques225) June 30, 2026
According to the latest trends, Ndicka is expected to slot straight into the starting eleven. He is likely to form the central defense partnership with his usual teammate to provide more defensive solidity against a particularly dangerous Norwegian side. His ability to play out from the back, aerial prowess, and anticipation will be invaluable in a match where any mistake could be fatal.
Côte d’Ivoire will approach this Round of 16 match with the ambition to continue their journey in this World Cup. Despite Wilfried Singo’s absence, Emerse Faé’s men hope to rely on Evan Ndicka’s return to strengthen their defense and contain the Norwegian attacks. Kick-off for this clash is set for Tuesday, June 30, at 17:00 GMT at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, with a spot in the quarter-finals at stake.
