World Cup Record: 1st Round 2006
Manager: Vahid Halihodzic
Key Player: Didier Drogba
Qualified: 1st AQ group E
Odds: 20/1

The Ivory Coast is held by many to be the strongest African side at the World Cup. Their only previous appearance at a World Cup came in 2006 where they failed to advance from the Group Stage, although they did manage a goal in every game. With star names such as Didier Drogba, the Toure brothers, Solomon Kalou they have a strong squad. Having qualified top of their qualification group, they are currently on an 18 game unbeaten run. The Elephants are ready to charge and with their undoubted potential and skilful football could they keep the World Cup on African soil?

Didier Drogba

Age: 31
Position: Centre Forward
Club: Chelsea (England-Premier League)
Caps: 60 (41 goals)
Top Goal Scorer Odds: 28/1

A big powerful centre forward who has scored goals at every level of the game, Drogba has an average of 2 goals every 3 games for the Ivory Coast. He is rarely out of the spotlight in the English Premier League and has had some negative press due to his diving antics and passionate demeanour. Despite his controversial nature there are few who would deny his remarkable ability. Aside from his numerous domestic honours and 351 (domestic & international) goals to his name, Drogba perhaps has something to prove on the world stage in what, at the age of 31, could be his last World Cup appearance.