In the buildup to the Brazil 2014 World Cup Playoffs match between Ivory Coast and Senegal, players from the same club, Lille, engaged in friendly banter ahead of the crucial fixture. Pape Souaré and Idrissa Gueye, representing Senegal, and Salomon Kalou, representing Ivory Coast, shared their thoughts in an interview.
Pape Souaré expressed the importance of the match for Senegal, emphasizing that they won’t let Ivory Coast dominate. Salomon Kalou, while acknowledging the competition, recalled Ivory Coast’s victory over Senegal in the play-offs for the CAN 2013 and hoped for a repeat. Idrissa Gueye discussed the pressure on Ivory Coast and emphasized the need for Senegal to resist.
The players engaged in friendly teasing, with Salomon Kalou jokingly stating that if he annoyed Pape Souaré, he might lose his temper and get punched. They discussed the stadium atmosphere, shared experiences, and made predictions for the match.
Despite the banter, the players concluded by expressing unity in supporting the team that qualifies for the World Cup, emphasizing their mutual respect and camaraderie.
