Commonly known as the Elephants, engaged in their final preparations on Friday, January 13, 2024. In a carefully orchestrated training session led by head coach Jean-Louis Gasset, the team fine-tuned their strategies and formations ahead of their inaugural match against Guinea-Bissau scheduled for Saturday, January 14, 2024.
With the Stade Alassane Ouattara in Ebimpe set as the battleground, Ivory Coast seeks to embark on a successful campaign as the host nation of AFCON 2023.
The choice of Guinea-Bissau as the initial opponent in this football extravaganza adds a layer of intrigue to the opening fixture.
Under the watchful eye of Coach Gasset, the Elephants commenced their training regimen with a brisk running session, a prelude to the tactical intricacies that would follow.
The team transitioned seamlessly into tactical setups, embodying Gasset’s meticulous planning for the upcoming clash. Dividing into two groups, the players engaged in exercises focused on ball retention and attacking maneuvers.
A practice match ensued, allowing Gasset to assess the players’ performances and potentially finalize his starting eleven for the match against Guinea-Bissau.
The session concluded with a stretching routine, designed to alleviate muscle tension and ensure the team is in optimal condition for the much-anticipated encounter.
The Ivory Coast-Guinea-Bissau clash is scheduled to kick off at 8 p.m. GMT at the Stade Alassane Ouattara in Ebimpe.
The 60,000-seat stadium is expected to be filled to capacity, underscoring the immense enthusiasm surrounding the opening match of AFCON 2023 in Group A.
The Elephants aim to commence their tournament journey on a positive note, buoyed by the support of a fervent home crowd.