As of now, uncertainty surrounds the venue for Côte d’Ivoire’s 2015 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Sierra Leone, scheduled for September 6. This follows a government decision to suspend international sporting events on Ivorian soil due to the Ebola virus outbreak, announced earlier that week.
Key Developments:
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The Ivorian Football Federation (FIF) has not confirmed a new location yet.
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FIF spokesperson Pierre Gondo stated that the federation is working with CAF and the Ivorian government to find a compromise that would allow the match to take place—possibly under special health protocols or in a neutral venue.
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The government’s directive affects only international events, which is why Séwé Sport, an Ivorian club, is still allowed to host Nkana FC in the CAF Confederation Cup without issue.
Possible Scenarios:
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Match relocated to a neutral venue (most likely in a neighboring West African country not affected by Ebola restrictions).
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CAF grants special dispensation for the game to be played behind closed doors with strict health measures.
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Postponement or forfeiture — a last resort if no agreement is reached.
For now, fans and officials are awaiting further instructions from CAF, which will ultimately have to decide if the game can proceed in Côte d’Ivoire or needs to be moved.
