Ivory Coast, facing elimination as the best third-placed team, triumphed over defending champion Senegal in a closely contested match, marking an unexpected and remarkable turnaround for the Elephants.
Termed by many as a miracle or a resurrection, Ivory Coast’s journey in the AFCON took an unforeseen twist. Just a week ago, the team suffered a resounding defeat at the hands of Equatorial Guinea (0-4), raising serious doubts about their prospects in the tournament.
The subsequent qualification depended on Morocco defeating Zambia. However, the draw pitted them against Senegal, a formidable opponent that had advanced as group leaders.
Amidst speculations of interim coach Hervé Renard taking charge, Jean-Louis Gasset’s resignation, and ultimately the appointment of Emerse Faé as interim coach, the Ivorian squad embarked on a mission of redemption.
Faé, the former coach of Nice U19, emphasized the need for renewal and an opportunity for the players to erase the humiliation suffered in the previous match.
In a captivating and almost inevitable scenario, Ivory Coast emerged victorious over Senegal in a penalty shootout (1-1, 5-4 on penalties). The final whistle ignited celebrations across the nation and provided a moment of joy for Franck Kessié and his teammates.
Kessié, addressing BeIN Sports post-match, reflected on the team’s resilience: “After the Morocco match, we were drafted… I think we had nothing left to lose! As they say: ‘a ghost cannot be afraid.’ Criticism is normal. I am one of the old ones.
I have to receive criticism to protect the youngest. So, I accept them to allow us to work and go as far as possible.”
The remarkable turnaround can be attributed in part to Emerse Faé’s motivational speeches and strategic coaching. Faé had emphasized the expectation of a significant reaction from his team, and the players delivered, awakening the spirits of the Elephants.
As Ivory Coast revels in this prestigious victory, dreams of a final coronation begin to surface. Supporters express their enthusiasm, with many already contemplating a potential final.
However, Faé remains focused, urging caution: “We’ve come so far that we’re not going to catch fire. We are focusing on our quarter-final.”
Ivory Coast now eagerly awaits the outcome of the Mali-Burkina Faso match in the quarter-finals, determined to continue their journey in the AFCON 2023.
