Former Cote d’Ivoire international, Emmanuel Eboue, attributes the “positive atmosphere” within the Elephants to interim coach Emerse Fae, following a turbulent period during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
After parting ways with coach Jean-Louis Gasset due to a precarious group stage performance, the Elephants faced upheaval.
Interim coach Fae stepped in, guiding the team to the quarter-finals with a penalty shootout victory over Senegal in the round of 16. Eboue, expressing satisfaction, emphasized the importance of fostering positivity within the team, acknowledging that the players, who compete in top European clubs, simply need motivation.
Eboue shared his optimism, saying, “This team were down and now they are up. They are so happy to play as a team and they have more confidence because they beat Senegal.” He further praised Fae, having known him from their playing days, and expressed happiness for his success.
Cote d’Ivoire is set to face Mali in the quarter-finals in Bouake on Saturday (17:00 GMT). Despite initial uncertainty and discussions among the players during the group stage, Eboue believes that with results favoring them, the squad now has a fresh start.
The return of key players, including Brighton winger Simon Adingra and Borussia Dortmund striker Sebastien Haller, has boosted the Elephants. Haller played a crucial role in winning a late penalty against Senegal.
Expressing confidence in the team’s potential, Eboue highlighted their belief and determination to go far in the tournament. He stated, “I am so excited because they beat Senegal, so now we have to go forward and play like we did against Senegal and try to do our best against Mali.”
As the Africa Cup of Nations takes place in their home country, there is a collective hope among the Ivorian people for the national team to clinch the trophy. Eboue concluded, “The Afcon is in our country, and people wish the country will win the cup. So many people are waiting for it.”
Reported By BBC Sports
