Former Cote d’Ivoire star Salomon Kalou, firmly supporting his homeland in the upcoming 2023 Africa Cup of Nations round of 16 clash against Senegal, envisions a potential upset.
Despite Cote d’Ivoire’s lacklustre performance in the initial stage, marked by a 4-0 defeat to Equatorial Guinea, Kalou remains optimistic about their chances against the formidable Senegalese team.
Securing a spot in the round of 16 as the third-placed team in Group A, the Elephants face a tough challenge against Senegal on Monday night.
The highly anticipated fixture takes place at the Stade Charles Konan Banny in Yamoussoukro.
Expressing confidence, Kalou predicts a dramatic victory for Cote d’Ivoire through a penalty shootout, foreseeing the defending champions Senegal being eliminated.
In an interview with Dsports.sn, Kalou shared his optimism, stating, “I think Ivory Coast will win on penalties. I like my brother Gana Gueye, I would like to see him in the final, but unfortunately, I told him that when he meets Ivory Coast, he will lose on penalties.”
The 2015 African champion belief in Cote d’Ivoire’s ability to triumph reflects the anticipation surrounding the highly awaited match, where the Elephants could potentially summon a surge of pride against Senegal.