Cote d’Ivoire interim coach Emerse Fae is staying grounded after the Elephants victory over defending champions Senegal in the Africa Cup of Nations.
The former midfielder was made the stop gap coach of the hosts, replacing Jean-Louis Gasset, who sacked after their 4-0 loss to Equatorial Guinea in the group stage.
On his debut, Fae made some structural changes by introducing Jean Michel Seri and Odilon Kossonou as the hosts eliminated the title holders Senegal after a post-match penalty shootout.
Cote d’Ivoire’s qualification into the quarter finals marked a dramatic turn of events, having qualified as one of the best third-placed teams.
“We had a difficult start, conceding an early goal, but I told the players at half-time to keep playing the same way not to get confused.” Fae told cafonline.
The former midfielder took responsibility for tactical decisions during the match.
“It was my decision on what needed to be done. With Gasset, I would give an opinion, and he will take the decision.
Fae indicated that he was under intense pressure before the showdown with Senegal.
“There was a lot of pressure before the game, and the match day was too long for me. I couldn’t nap as usual, thinking about all scenarios. If I say there was no pressure, I would be lying.” Fae admitted.
“Qualifying after Morocco’s win gave us confidence. We beat Senegal and eliminated them; morale is good.” Fae said.
He stressed that the team will not be carried away as tough lies ahead.
“We are not stopping here; we must continue working, maintain this morale, and keep playing match by match.” Fae said.
Cote d’Ivoire take on Mali in the quarter-finals of the AFCON tournament on Saturday, February 3, 2024, at the Stade de la Paix in Bouake.
