AFCON 2015: Côte d’Ivoire Aim to Reignite Glory Amid Uncertain Form
Malabo, Equatorial Guinea — Despite boasting one of Africa’s most consistent records in major tournaments, Côte d’Ivoire enter the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations without the favourite’s tag, as question marks hang over their recent form and tournament record.
Nicknamed Les Éléphants, the Ivorian national team has participated in 21 editions of the tournament, the most among the 16 qualified nations. Yet, they have only lifted the coveted trophy once — back in 1992. Since then, they have reached two finals and four semi-finals but struggled to turn promise into silverware.
Drawn into Group D alongside Mali, Guinea, and Cameroon, Hervé Renard’s men face a tough path. With the weight of history on their shoulders and an expectant fanbase, captain Yaya Touré and his teammates will look to silence their critics and make a deep run in Equatorial Guinea.
The Ivorians’ journey to the finals was far from smooth. Defeats to Cameroon and DR Congo in the qualifiers left their campaign hanging in the balance before a late rally secured qualification. Their final group game, a goalless draw with Cameroon, drew criticism for a perceived lack of effort from both sides.
Tournament Schedule – Group D (Malabo)
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20 January: Côte d’Ivoire vs Guinea – 17:00
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24 January: Côte d’Ivoire vs Mali – 17:00
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28 January: Cameroon vs Côte d’Ivoire – 19:00
Star Player: Yaya Touré
Midfield powerhouse Yaya Touré remains the undisputed star of the squad. The Manchester City man enters the tournament on the back of winning the CAF African Player of the Year award for a record-equalling fourth consecutive time, matching Cameroonian legend Samuel Eto’o in overall titles, but setting a new benchmark in consistency. Touré’s influence, both on and off the pitch, is vital to the Elephants’ ambitions.
One to Watch: Wilfried Bony
Recently transferred from Swansea City to Manchester City for a significant fee, Wilfried Bony arrives at the tournament as the man expected to fill the void left by Didier Drogba’s international retirement. The powerful striker was the Premier League’s top scorer in 2014 and will lead the line in what is expected to be an attack-minded side.
Head Coach: Hervé Renard
The experienced Frenchman, who led Zambia to a surprise AFCON title in 2012, has been tasked with finally converting Côte d’Ivoire’s golden generation into champions. Known for his tactical flexibility and man-management, Renard will hope to end the country’s 23-year wait for a second title.
Probable XI
Goalkeeper: Copa Barry
Defenders: Serge Aurier, Kolo Touré, Eric Bailly, Sakia Tiéné
Midfielders: Yaya Touré, Cheick Tioté, Max Gradel
Forwards: Gervinho, Salomon Kalou, Wilfried Bony
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