Ivory Coast may have to navigate their upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 qualifiers without key player Simon Adingra. The Brighton & Hove Albion forward picked up a calf injury during his side’s Premier League match against Nottingham Forest on Sunday, where he was substituted in the 62nd minute.
This injury poses a significant dilemma for Ivory Coast head coach Emerse Faé. With the announcement of the squad for the crucial double-header against Sierra Leone imminent, Faé could be forced to exclude one of his standout performers from the lineup.
Adingra, who has been a pivotal figure for the Elephants, is expected to miss the two fixtures as his recovery timeline remains uncertain.
Ivory Coast, the reigning African champions, have performed impeccably in their AFCON 2025 qualifying campaign so far, securing two victories from their opening matches in Group G.
They currently lead the group with six points, putting them in a commanding position as they head into the third and fourth matchdays of the qualifiers. However, the potential absence of Adingra may complicate their plans.
The Elephants are set to face Sierra Leone in a double clash, starting with the first match at the Laurent Pokou Stadium in San Pedro on October 11, 2024, followed by the return leg at the Samuel Kanyon Doe Sports Complex in Liberia on October 15.
These matches are crucial for maintaining their momentum in the qualifiers, and the loss of Adingra would undoubtedly weaken their attacking options.
At just 22 years old, Adingra has established himself as one of the brightest young talents in Ivorian football.
His performances for Brighton in the Premier League have earned him widespread recognition, and his contributions to the national team have been equally significant.
Known for his pace, creativity, and ability to score key goals, his absence will be felt on both sides of the pitch.
While the Ivorian camp has not yet confirmed the extent of Adingra’s injury or whether he will be fully ruled out of the upcoming qualifiers, the likelihood of his return in time appears slim.
The team’s medical staff will closely monitor his progress, but Faé may need to turn to other attacking options to fill the void.
Despite this setback, Ivory Coast remains a formidable force, with a wealth of talent across the squad.
Faé will be hoping that the rest of his team can step up in Adingra’s potential absence and continue their strong form as they aim to secure their place in the next edition of the Africa Cup of Nations.
As the Elephants prepare for their crucial October fixtures, all eyes will be on Faé’s squad announcement and whether Adingra’s name will be on the list.
For now, Ivory Coast must brace for the possibility of being without one of their most influential players as they continue their pursuit of AFCON 2025 qualification.
🚨🚨🚨 Blessé au mollet, Simon Adingra devrait être absent de la liste d’Emerse Fae pour les matches contre la Sierra Leone…🇨🇮🐘
— Malick Traoré (@mlktraore) September 26, 2024
