Ivory Coast to Host Sierra Leone in Crucial AFCON Qualifier Amid Ebola Concerns
Ivory Coast will welcome Sierra Leone this Saturday at 5 p.m. GMT for their opening match in the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. Despite challenges posed by the Ebola outbreak, the Elephants are set to play at home following directives from the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
This match marks Ivory Coast’s return to competitive international football following their disappointing campaign at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. Forward Gervinho expressed determination within the squad as they embark on this new qualifying journey.
“This is our first match since the World Cup. Our squad has been revamped with some new players, and many Ivorian athletes are eager to see what lies ahead. Our mindset is clear—we need to win this match,” said the AS Roma winger.
Gervinho also emphasized the importance of the match under new head coach Hervé Renard, stating, “Hervé Renard has been clear with us: qualifying for the final tournament is the goal. The match against Sierra Leone is crucial for both the team and for Renard, who is just beginning his coaching career with us.”
The forward reflected on the team’s future in the absence of the iconic Didier Drogba. “That’s life. Drogba is a monument in Ivorian and African football, and he has contributed immensely. But his departure signals a new era. We must focus on what lies ahead and continue the adventure. Our aim is to win the African Cup of Nations, a trophy that has eluded us since 1992.”
The Elephants’ clash with Sierra Leone will set the tone for their qualifying campaign as they seek redemption and a strong return to continental football.
