The upcoming rematch between Senegal and Ivory Coast, a crucial fixture in the last qualifying round for the African Cup of Nations, South Africa 2013, is generating anticipation. Senegal, having faced a loss in the initial leg, is determined to avoid elimination. Meanwhile, in Ivory Coast, the government is heightening player incentives by increasing bonuses.
This strategic move is poised to boost Sabri Lamouchi’s team for the return match in the qualifiers for the African Cup of Nations football, scheduled for South Africa in 2013. The government has doubled the victory bonus earned in Abidjan against Senegal, reaching 8 million CFA francs, excluding the additional 1 million CFA francs camp bonus. This totals to 9 million CFA francs for each player. A similar arrangement is expected for the upcoming match, excluding the yet-to-be-disclosed qualification bonus. Both the government and the Ivorian Football Federation (FIF) are actively preparing the team for the challenging Dakar match.
On the Senegalese side, there is a belief that the match against Ivory Coast is open to possibilities. “We demonstrated that Ivory Coast is not unbeatable. We have the potential to qualify. This team is within our grasp, and we are committed to securing qualification for Senegal. I rely on the solidarity and determination of my players to deliver another commendable performance. If Ivory Coast managed to score 4 goals at home, we have the capability to do the same on our turf. There are opportunities, and we will strive to seize them. I have confidence in these young players, and I want to extend my congratulations to them,” expressed Joseph Koto, the Senegal coach. The spotlight will be on this significant encounter on Saturday, October 13.
