Ivory Coast Aims to Overcome Tough Group in 2015 AFCON, Says Former Champion Gadji Celi
Despite competing in several recent African Cup of Nations tournaments — including 2006, 2008, 2010, 2012, and 2013 — Côte d’Ivoire has often fallen short of supporters’ expectations, frequently facing early elimination. Now, Yaya Touré and his teammates are back in Equatorial Guinea for the 2015 CAN. Although many no longer see them as favorites, instead tipping Algeria to go far, former international and 1992 AFCON winner Gadji Celi remains confident the Elephants will at least reach the knockout stages.
“Frankly, it’s a very tough group. Cameroon is always a strong opponent; they’ve shown that consistently. Mali has performed well in the last three AFCON tournaments, and Guinea is gaining momentum with a strong mentality and determination. It will be difficult to beat them, but I believe Ivory Coast will make it through the group stage,” Celi told topvisage.net.
He added that Ivory Coast’s underdog status could actually work to their advantage this time.
“The surprise team could be Ivory Coast. The Elephants are underestimated. To create a surprise and reach the final, they will need to stay focused, fight hard, and show solidarity. It’s up to the Elephants to give their all. We are all behind them.”
Ivory Coast will face Cameroon, Mali, and Guinea Conakry in Group D.
