Ivory Coast’s Interim Boss Fae Aims for More Success Post Senegal Upset

Ivory Coast’s Interim Boss Fae Aims for More Success Post Senegal Upset

Cote d’Ivoire’s interim coach, Emerse Fae, emphasized the importance of not resting on their laurels following their remarkable penalty shootout triumph over Senegal in the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations last 16.

In a dramatic clash at the Stade Charles Konan Banny in Yamoussoukro, the tournament hosts secured a quarter-final berth by eliminating the reigning champions with a 5-4 victory on penalties after a 1-1 draw in regular time.
Despite Senegal’s early lead, courtesy of a goal by Habib Diallo, Cote d’Ivoire remained resilient, with Franck Kessie’s 86th-minute penalty leveling the score after VAR intervention.

The shootout heroics, capped by Kessie’s winning kick, marked a remarkable turnaround for the Elephants, who faced adversity in the group stage, including a 4-0 defeat to Equatorial Guinea.
Coach Fae, in contrast to his predecessor, Jean-Louis Gasset, took full responsibility for tactical decisions during the match, emphasizing the need for continuity in their approach.

Admitting to feeling intense pressure before the Senegal showdown, Fae acknowledged the significance of the team’s belief boost after qualifying following Morocco’s win.
Despite the euphoria surrounding the victory, Fae cautioned against complacency, urging his players to maintain focus and approach each match with the same determination.

As the Elephants celebrate their quarter-final berth, Fae remains resolute, underscoring the need to build on this success and face upcoming challenges with the same commitment and determination that fueled their triumph over Senegal.