Herve Renard warns Oumar Diakite after Cote d’Ivoire win over Gambia

Herve Renard has promised to “pull Oumar Diakite’s ears” after criticising the forward for attempting a series of stepovers late in Cote d’Ivoire’s 2-1 victory over Gambia in the CAN 2027 qualifiers.

The result at the third-round stage secured a third successive win for the Elephants, but France manager Renard was unhappy with Diakite’s conduct in the closing moments.

The incident prompted laughter from some members of the audience during Renard’s news conference, although the reaction was not shared by the Cote d’Ivoire manager.

Diakite was called into the squad after Ange-Yoan Bonny withdrew on medical grounds and was introduced in the 70th minute in place of Elye Wahi. The 22-year-old Sturm Graz forward, who was born in Bingerville, made an energetic contribution after coming on.

“He brought what he was brought on for, which was his enthusiasm and determination,” Renard said.

But the manager then singled out one moment in particular.

“After that… the two or three stepovers at the end of the match, I did not appreciate that at all,” he added.

The comment caused further amusement in the room, but Renard quickly made clear that his criticism was serious.

“Sometimes, Ivorians tend to try to be a little bit clever, as you say, but you have to respect the opponent,” he said. “Because we lost the ball during that move, so I’m going to pull his ears.”

It was a direct warning to Diakite, who had been given an opportunity to make an impression after joining the squad as a replacement. Renard’s comments suggested that the forward’s flair was outweighed by the risk created by losing possession.

The victory moves Cote d’Ivoire clear at the top of Group C with nine points from three matches. Gambia remain second on six points, while the Elephants had previously beaten Ghana 2-0 and Somalia 2-0.

Despite the perfect record, Renard wants his players to show greater control. The return fixture against Gambia, known as the Scorpions, will take place at Bakau on Tuesday 17 November, when the hosts will be seeking a response in front of their own supporters.

It remains to be seen whether Diakite will be given another opportunity in that match. If he is, he will need to retain the energy and determination that impressed Renard while avoiding the showboating that drew the manager’s ire.