The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which is the continent’s most prestigious tournament remains one of the greatest titles to have eluded football icon, Didier Drogba despite his remarkable career.
Considered as one of the greatest players to have don the Ivory Coast jersey, Drogba debuted for the Elephants in 2002 and established himself as an integral member of the team, making 105 appearances and scoring 65 goals across the period.
He rose to become the captain of the West African football heavyweights before bowing out of international football in 2014. Unfortunately for him, the Elephant secured the Africa Cup of Nations title a year later, defeating Ghana on penalties to annex their third continental title in history.
Before retiring from the national team, the former Chelsea star had guided Ivory Coast to the two finals in 2006 and 2012.
Truth be told, Drogba carried the hopes of Côte d’Ivoire like a crown on his head and a burden on his shoulders. From the moment he pulled on the orange jersey, Drogba became more than a striker, but rather a symbol considering his contributions to the team.
During the 2006 AFCON in the North African country, Drogba and the Ivory Coast national team came close to annexing the title, but their quest dashed after penalty shootouts defeat to Egypt.
Six years later, in 2012, the former African Footballer of the Year led the Elephants to the final of the AFCON again, where his outfit fell short to the Chipolopolo of Zambia.
The moment was set for redemption for Drogba and the Ivorian team in 2012, but succumbed to defeat on penalties for the second time after 2006 edition.
Despite not winning the AFCON, the former Chelsea star remains a legend for Ivory Coast considering the illustrious career achieved.
