The inclusion of the 26-year-old former French youth international marks a major recruitment coup for the reigning African champions. Solet, who has anchored Udinese’s defense in Serie A this season, officially completed his national allegiance switch to represent the Elephants following extensive talks with Renard and the Ivorian Football Federation.
The upcoming back-to-back fixtures carry immense strategic weight for both nations. Both Côte d’Ivoire and The Gambia opened their Group C campaigns with perfect records, securing maximum points from their first two matches. The winner of the upcoming double-header will establish full control over the group standings and take a decisive step toward securing early qualification for the 2027 tournament.
Beyond Solet, Renard’s squad selection reflects a mix of tactical reinforcement and squad rotation. Manchester United winger Amad Diallo earns a recall to the national setup following strong domestic form, while Renard has integrated three additional newcomers into the 25-man roster to expand squad depth ahead of the compressed fixture window.
Côte d’Ivoire will host the first leg in Abidjan on November 12, 2026, before traveling for the return fixture three days later.
