The 2026 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco offers us an explosive Round of 16 match between Ivory Coast, the reigning African champions, and Burkina Faso. This West African derby is always a high-intensity affair, where geographical proximity and recent history of encounters promise a fiercely contested duel. Finishing top of Group F ahead of Cameroon, the Ivorian team enters the match as favorites, but knows that nothing will be handed to them on a silver platter against the Stallions, renowned for their fighting spirit.

Solid and consistent since the start of the tournament, Ivory Coast intends to confirm its status and continue its journey towards another continental title. The Elephants rely on an experienced core led by Franck Kessié, Jean-Michaël Seri, and Wilfried Zaha, veterans well-versed in major competitions. This solid foundation is complemented by a talented and ambitious youth movement, embodied in particular by Yan Diomandé and Evann Guessand, who bring freshness, dynamism, and unpredictability to the Ivorian game. This skillful blend makes Ivory Coast one of the most complete teams in the competition.

But Burkina Faso is no naive underdog. Always a tough opponent, the Burkinabe team boasts a well-balanced squad, composed of players accustomed to African competition and high-pressure matches. The Stallions sent a strong message during the group stage with their stunning 2-1 victory over Equatorial Guinea, demonstrating their mental fortitude and ability to rise to the occasion in the face of adversity.

On paper, the advantage clearly lies with Ivory Coast. However, the history of the Africa Cup of Nations is full of surprises, and Burkina Faso has the necessary assets to pull off an upset. Tactical discipline, physical intensity, and efficiency in key moments will be the Stallions' weapons to make the reigning champions doubt themselves. Between the ambition to retain their crown and the dream of an upset, this round of 16 match promises to be one of the most unpredictable and exciting clashes of the 2026 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.