Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Guardian Nigeria
Published on 2024-02-12 14:06:36
Ivory Coast coach, Emerse Fae, celebrated his team’s victory in the Africa Cup of Nations final, calling them “miracle survivors” after completing one of the greatest turnarounds in major tournament history. The host country won the final by beating Nigeria 2-1 on Sunday at the Ebimpe Olympic Stadium. Fae expressed his disbelief at the team’s triumph and reflected on the challenges they had overcome.
Fae mentioned the incredible journey his team had experienced, emphasizing their resilience and refusal to give up despite facing multiple tough blows. He described their victory as more than a fairytale, expressing his struggle to comprehend the magnitude of their achievement.
The victory allowed the Ivorian national team, known as the Elephants, to secure their third continental title, making them the first host country to win the Cup of Nations since Egypt in 2006. Their triumph was all the more impressive considering their near elimination in the group stage. The team lost to Nigeria and suffered their heaviest-ever home defeat against Equatorial Guinea. These setbacks led to the dismissal of their coach, Jean-Louis Gasset.
However, under interim coach Emerse Fae, the team managed to qualify for the knockout stage as the last of the four best third-placed teams. Their journey through the knockout rounds was arduous, characterized by late comebacks and challenging matches. Fae highlighted the physical and mental resilience the team demonstrated throughout the tournament, ultimately leading to their triumph in the final.
Fae, who also celebrated his 40th birthday on the day he became coach, expressed his immense joy and gratitude for the opportunity to win the AFCON championship. He reminisced about falling short as a player in the 2006 final but was grateful to fulfill his dream of winning the tournament as a coach.
Sebastien Haller, the Borussia Dortmund striker, played a significant role in the team’s victory, scoring the winning goals in the semi-final and final. He reflected on the emotional journey and shared his teammates’ encouragement to stay on the pitch, ultimately leading to his match-winning goal.
Haller’s personal journey in the tournament was also remarkable, considering he missed the group stage due to an ankle injury. His determination to contribute to the team’s success despite injury challenges was a testament to his dedication.
In the end, the Ivory Coast’s victory in the Africa Cup of Nations was a testament to their resilience, determination, and ability to overcome numerous challenges. The team’s triumph was a source of pride for the entire nation and showcased the power of perseverance and teamwork.
