The semi-final opponent for Mali in the 29th African Cup of Nations will be determined at the end of the match between Ivory Coast and Nigeria. The Ivorian site abidjan.net highlights the historical encounters between Ivory Coast and Nigeria in the final phase of the CAN, emphasizing close scores in their previous confrontations.
The report mentions the 1994 semi-final won by Nigeria on penalties, as well as Ivory Coast’s 1-0 victories in the 2006 semi-final (with Drogba’s goal) and the 2008 group stage. While Nigeria has experienced two recent setbacks, the Super Eagles captain, Joseph Yobo, emphasizes the importance of victory over revenge.
Stephen Keshi has enlisted a young team for this campaign, and despite their lack of experience in the CAN, Ivory Coast’s coach, Sabri Lamouchi, is cautious and does not underestimate Nigeria. Didier Ya Konan highlights the Elephants’ determination to give their all on the pitch to win the cup.
There is a shared ambition for victory, as both teams aim to bring the trophy home. The report concludes that one of the teams will bid farewell to the CAN 2013 on Sunday, February 3, 2013, but Ivory Coast is determined to win and take home the trophy.
