Yaya Touré, the illustrious former Ivorian international and current assistant coach of Saudi Arabia, has shared his insights on the favorites for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2023, set to unfold in Ivory Coast. While expressing a natural affinity for his homeland, Touré acknowledged the strength of other contenders, singling out Senegal, Morocco, Guinea-Bissau, and South Africa as teams to watch.
“It is normal to have a preference for your own country.
Ivory Coast has a strong team and many talented and experienced players. But if I had to choose teams that I think are favorites, I would say Senegal, Morocco, Guinea-Bissau, South Africa.
Their performance during the qualifications was impressive,” remarked the four-time African Golden Ball winner, as reported by sportnewsafrica.
Touré’s assessment sheds light on the competitive landscape of AFCON 2023, emphasizing the prowess exhibited by several nations during the rigorous qualification phase.
The tournament, slated to kick off on January 13 and culminate on February 11, promises a thrilling showcase of African football talent on the Ivory Coast stage.
As anticipation mounts for the continent’s premier football event, Yaya Touré’s recognition of Senegal, Morocco, Guinea-Bissau, and South Africa as formidable contenders underscores the depth of competition and the unpredictability that characterizes AFCON tournaments.
The seasoned midfielder, renowned for his stellar career with clubs such as Barcelona and Manchester City, brings a unique perspective to the discourse surrounding the tournament.
Ivory Coast, led by coach Patrice Beaumelle, aims to leverage its strong team and the support of home fans to make a lasting impact on the competition.
As the footballing world eagerly awaits the kickoff of AFCON 2023, the spotlight on the favorites intensifies, and the stage is set for an enthralling spectacle of skill, strategy, and sporting fervor in the heart of Ivory Coast.
