December 2025 is shaping up to be a pivotal month for the Ivory Coast Elephants. Just days before the start of the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, the national team is preparing to enter its final phase of preparation, with a packed, strategic, and high-stakes program.

The first step in this crucial period will take place on December 9, 2025 , when the national team coach will officially announce the list of players selected to represent Ivory Coast. This highly anticipated announcement is expected to generate its share of surprises, confirmations, and debates.

Starting December 10th , the Elephants will enter a training camp and head to Marbella, Spain , for an intensive preparation period. This camp represents the final stretch before the major continental battle. Tactical work, establishing automatic plays, physical conditioning, and team cohesion will be at the heart of this gathering.

During this training camp, Ivory Coast will play two high-level friendly matches : on December 15th and then on December 18th, 2025. These matches will allow the technical staff to test their options, adjust the playing systems and gauge the true form of the group before the competition.

On December 20, 2025 , the Ivorian delegation will fly to Morocco , the host country of the 2025 AFCON. From that moment on, Ivory Coast will fully immerse itself in the atmosphere of the tournament.

Placed in a tough group , the Elephants will face Mozambique , Cameroon , and Gabon in succession during the group stage. A challenging schedule for the reigning African champions, who know they will be under pressure in every match.

Having won the trophy in 2024, Ivory Coast enters this match with a special status: that of designated favorite . A flattering status, but a heavy one to bear. Every match will be a test; every opponent will want to dethrone the champion.

Between ambition, public pressure, and the demands of top-level football, the Elephants have a lot riding on this December. The road to potentially retaining their title begins now, away from the spotlight, on the training pitches, through hard work, rigor, and collective discipline.

The Ivorian people are already holding their breath. The countdown has begun.