Ivory Coast faces criticism after lackluster performance against Nigeria in AFCON 2023

Ivory Coast experienced a disappointing defeat against Nigeria (0-1) on Thursday, marking the second day of Group A in the AFCON 2023 tournament. The defeat has prompted a wave of criticism, particularly directed at the team’s performance and the strategy employed by coach Jean-Louis Gasset.

Former Elephants defender Guy Demel, who accumulated 35 caps between 2004 and 2011, did not mince words when expressing his views on the national team’s display.

Speaking on Canal + Africa, Demel remarked, “People will say that I am hard on the selection when it is the opposite.

I love them and I say it. We have seen it several times in recent months, even if Ivory Coast was automatically qualified, that the matches were insufficient.”

Demel pointed out various shortcomings in the team’s performance, emphasizing slow transmissions, defensive withdrawals lacking urgency, and a dearth of offensive ideas.

He characterized Ivory Coast’s showing as a “pale copy” of the team’s overall performance during Gasset’s tenure. Despite his critical assessment, Demel clarified that his intent is not to be against the coach but to offer a thorough analysis of the team’s gameplay.

In response to the defeat, Gasset downplayed the significance of the result, highlighting a penalty decision as a decisive factor.

He stated, “It’s a small detail, a penalty that I wouldn’t say is contentious because there is still a little blow in the calf (Ousmane Diomandé made a foul on Victor Osimhen, editor’s note) which means that we lose this match 1-0.”

Gasset also expressed frustration with the team’s lack of offensive efficiency, saying, “Today, I did not have the impression that Nigeria was superior to us.

We don’t score goals! We had three or four situations in the first half… We lacked strength in the area.”

With Ivory Coast set to face Equatorial Guinea in their final group match on Monday, January 22, expectations are high for a marked improvement.

While a draw would be sufficient for qualification, supporters are anticipating a more dynamic and resilient performance from the Elephants, whose status as favorites took a hit on Thursday.