Ivory Coast’s national team coach, Jean-Louis Gasset, expressed optimism regarding the potential involvement of Sébastien Haller (22 caps, 8 goals) in the upcoming clash against Nigeria at the AFCON 2023 on Thursday.
Sébastien Haller, a prominent striker with a significant impact on the Ivorian squad, has successfully resumed collective training.
Coach Gasset provided insights into Haller’s recovery, indicating a positive trajectory that raises the prospect of the player’s participation in Thursday’s crucial match.
“Sébastien is recovering well, as he should, given his situation. We will evaluate his progress and make a judgment on his participation in the match, at the appropriate time,” elaborated the French coach during the press briefing.
This development signifies a pivotal moment in Haller’s rehabilitation, as he initially faced exclusion from the opening match of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations against Guinea-Bissau (2-0) due to a concerning ankle injury.
Despite encountering challenges at the club level, where he lost his starting position at Borussia Dortmund this season, Haller’s potential return to the national team holds significance for the Elephants.
While starting in Thursday’s match might be unlikely, the prospect of him making a cameo appearance is plausible, with a more probable scenario unfolding during the final group stage match against Equatorial Guinea next Monday.
The return of Haller to the field could prove to be a valuable asset for Ivory Coast, as they navigate through the competitive landscape of the AFCON.
Notably, his replacement, Jean-Philippe Krasso, made a notable contribution by scoring in the opening match, underscoring the team’s depth and versatility.
The anticipation for Haller’s comeback adds an extra layer of intrigue to Ivory Coast’s AFCON campaign.
“.@HallerSeb is recovering well, as well as he should, in his situation. We shall assess his progress and make a judgement, on match fitness, at the appropriate time.” – #Elephants coach Jean-Louis Gasset, speaking ahead of Thursday’s #TotalEnergiesAFCON2023 match against… pic.twitter.com/NRVpe2kW3b
— Osasu Obayiuwana (@osasuo) January 17, 2024
