Emerse Faé, the interim coach of the Ivory Coast national football team, shared his thoughts in a press briefing ahead of the team’s pivotal round of 16 encounter against Senegal in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Faé assumed the helm of the Elephants following the resignation of Jean-Louis Gasset, his predecessor, and offered insights into the team’s recent challenges and prospects.
The coach reflected on the rollercoaster of emotions experienced by the team, stemming from their own performance and the suspense leading up to Morocco’s victory against Zambia, which secured Ivory Coast’s qualification to the round of 16.
“We were really between the disappointment of our own match and the fear of not qualifying for our AFCON. So it’s been two difficult days, and today we’re going to say that the day ends well; it’s a very good thing,” Faé remarked during an interview with Canal+ CAN.
Acknowledging that their progression was facilitated by external factors, Faé emphasized the need for humility and measured joy within the team.
“Now we have passed thanks to others; we did not pass because we were good on the pitch, so we must remain humble, we must have a measured joy, use this qualification as a relief,” he cautioned.
As the Ivory Coast prepares to face Senegal in the round of 16, Faé expressed gratitude for the team’s qualification and underscored the importance of building on this opportunity.
The coach’s composed and insightful remarks have resonated with fans, highlighting the team’s commitment to a level-headed approach as they navigate the challenges of the tournament.
Le discours d’Emerse Faé avant l’entraînement d’aujourd’hui ! 🇨🇮🐘 pic.twitter.com/XmE2SKXPA8
— Séléphanto Football 🇨🇮🐘 (@Selephanto) January 25, 2024
