AFCON 2023: Emerse Fae credits Ivory Coast's grit for semifinal qualification
Emerse Fae, the interim coach of Ivory Coast's national football team, has attributed their remarkable journey to the semifinals of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) to the unwavering determination and resilience of his players.
Emerse Fae, the interim coach of Ivory Coast's national football team, has hailed his players' unwavering spirit as the key factor behind their qualification for the semifinals of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The journey began with Ivory Coast's shaky start in the group stage, marked by defeats to Equatorial Guinea and Nigeria. Fae, stepping in after the dismissal of coach Jean Louis Gasset, emphasized the team's survival instincts and fighting spirit in the face of adversity.
More To Read
"I told the players we were dead after the defeat against Equatorial Guinea, and we were resurrected after the Morocco game with Zambia," Fae revealed, underscoring the team's remarkable turnaround and refusal to succumb to defeat.
With newfound determination, Ivory Coast defied the odds to stun defending champions Senegal and overcome Mali in a thrilling encounter. Fae admitted to a rollercoaster of emotions during the intense matches, highlighting the team's resilience and ability to rise to the occasion.
As they prepare for the semifinals, Fae remains steadfast in his praise for the team's fighting spirit. "When you reach the semi-finals, you play with teams of high quality, so we are going to prepare ourselves," he asserted, acknowledging the challenges ahead while instilling confidence in his players.
For Ivory Coast, their journey to the semifinals is not just a testament to their skill on the field but also a reflection of their indomitable spirit and unwavering determination to succeed against all odds.
