AFCON 2015: Renard Acknowledges Algeria’s Quality After Ivory Coast’s Quarter-Final Triumph
Ivory Coast manager Hervé Renard has praised his team’s spirit and tactical execution following their 3-1 victory over Algeria in the quarter-finals of the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations — but he was quick to acknowledge that, in pure footballing terms, the better side may have lost.
Speaking at a post-match press conference, Renard offered a candid assessment of the encounter, recognising Algeria’s technical superiority despite the Elephants’ convincing scoreline.
“In terms of football, in terms of ball control, Algeria was better than us,” Renard admitted. “You have to be clear-headed about yourself and not get ahead of yourself. The key was finding the most effective tactic against a team that plays on the ground and making the best use of set pieces.”
Renard, who famously led Zambia to their historic AFCON title in 2012, emphasised that Ivory Coast’s victory was earned through discipline and capitalising on Algeria’s shortcomings, particularly in defending dead-ball situations.
“It’s not our fault if Algeria weren’t good in this area. They were the team that played the best football in the tournament, but we’re not going to apologise for winning 3-1,” he added.
The result sees Ivory Coast advance to the semi-finals, where they will meet DR Congo on Wednesday. It marks another strong step for a side still chasing its first continental crown since 1992, despite boasting a golden generation of talent over the past decade.
While many viewed Algeria as tournament favourites — and arguably the most complete team based on their group stage performances — it is Renard’s Ivorian side that progresses, reminding all that tournament football often rewards pragmatism and timing over flair alone.
The Elephants will now aim to carry this momentum into the semi-finals, as the AFCON title edges closer into view.
