The Côte d'Ivoire U17 national team, known as the Éléphanteaux, will compete in the 2026 U17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco without midfielder Alynho Haidara. The decision was confirmed by the Ivorian Football Federation (FIF) on May 5, 2026.
According to official sources, Haidara was omitted from the final squad due to a combination of tactical considerations and a minor injury that prevented him from participating in the final training camp. The coaching staff, led by head coach Souhalio Touré, emphasized that the decision was made in the best interest of the team's balance and performance.
The tournament, scheduled to take place in Morocco from May 10 to 28, 2026, features 12 teams competing for the continental title. Côte d'Ivoire has been drawn in Group B alongside Senegal, Egypt, and Tanzania. The Éléphanteaux aim to improve on their quarterfinal finish in the 2023 edition.
Haidara, a key playmaker for the team during the qualifying rounds, expressed disappointment but accepted the coach's decision. The FIF confirmed that Haidara remains part of the federation's long-term plans and will be considered for future youth national team call-ups.
