Ivory Coast is set to face a significant personnel challenge as they gear up for the CAN 2023 semi-final showdown against the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) on Wednesday.
The Elephants, showcasing their resilience and determination, secured a stunning 2-1 victory over Mali in a match filled with drama and intensity.
Overcoming adversities, including playing with ten men since the 43rd minute, Ivory Coast showcased their depth and skill, securing their place in the semi-finals.
However, the triumph came at a cost, with four key players ruled out for the crucial semi-final encounter.
The influential defender Odilon Kossounou received a second yellow card during the quarter-final, resulting in suspension.
Adding to the challenge, Simon Adingra, the impactful substitute who scored the equalizer in the 90th minute, faced a red card for removing his jersey in celebration, leading to his dismissal in extra time (120th +3).
Captain Serge Aurier and striker Christian Kouamé will also be notable absentees due to accumulated yellow cards, further depleting the Ivory Coast squad for the upcoming fixture.
Aurier received a yellow card in the 8th minute, and Kouamé faced similar consequences in the quarter-finals.
As the Elephants prepare to face the formidable DRC in the semi-final, the absence of these key players presents a considerable challenge for the team.
The miraculous journey of Ivory Coast in the tournament has captured attention, and the upcoming clash against the Leopards will undoubtedly test the team’s depth and resilience once again.
🟥 4 Éléphants manqueront les demi-finales contre la RDC :
ODILON KOSSOUNOU 🟨🟨 = 🟥 (1 match)
DIAKITÉ OUMAR 🟨🟨 = 🟥 (1 match)
SERGE AURIER 2 X 🟨 (1 match)
CHRISTIAN KOUAMÉ 2 X 🟨 (1 match)#CAN2023 pic.twitter.com/Wq5j8YpU6f— varan🐊 2.0 💪🏾🇨🇮🇨🇳🇨🇮🖖🏿 (@luca_varan) February 3, 2024
