As Ivory Coast gears up for a high-stakes encounter against DR Congo in the semifinal of the Africa Cup of Nations, head coach Emerse Fae and winger Max Alain Gradel have underscored the team’s determination and unity in pursuit of continental glory.Fae, speaking at a pre-match press conference, acknowledged the team’s recent struggles in falling behind early in matches but emphasized the imperative of imposing their style from the outset against DR Congo. “We really want to start the match on a positive side, impose our style and rhythm and be on the lead from the beginning of the match,” he asserted, highlighting the significance of a strong start.Despite the absence of four key players due to suspension, Fae stressed the importance of solidarity within the squad, emphasizing the need for every member to contribute towards the collective goal of winning the tournament. “We have a group of 27 players and we need all of them to win this trophy,” he affirmed.AFCON 2023: DR Congo football stars amplify call for peace in homeland ahead of semifinalReflecting on the mental strength required for success in such a demanding competition, Fae expressed confidence in his team’s ability to manage the pressure, noting that they were now on the brink of reaching the final. “If we want the cup to remain at home we need to show more mental strength, and we now even have to work harder in the semifinal,” he remarked, underlining the gravity of the upcoming encounter.AFCON 2023 – SemifinalsWednesday20:00: (1.65) Nigeria (3.50) S.Africa (6.25)23:00: (2.20) Ivory Coast (3.15) Dr Congo (3.60)***odds are subject to change***The 4 of them are equally hungry to bring the trophy back home. 🏆Who is going to add a new one in history books? 🔥#TotalEnergiesAFCON2023 pic.twitter.com/QH1IPNubSu— CAF (@CAF_Online) February 6, 2024 Meanwhile, Max Alain Gradel echoed Fae’s sentiments, highlighting the unity and focus within the Ivorian camp. “Each generation leaves their mark. The current generation is also writing their own history. We are the same family of elephants, and the key is to succeed,” Gradel affirmed, emphasizing the team’s shared determination to leave a lasting legacy in African football. A million-dollar question – will Osimhen recover for the AFCON semi-final?With the semifinal clash against DR Congo looming large, Gradel emphasized the importance of swiftly regaining focus and implementing the coach’s strategies. “It takes time to implement new ideas by the coach but this is a tournament, and we don’t have much time but what is important is that we have been able to regain character and confidence,” he stated, highlighting the team’s adaptability and resilience.As anticipation mounts ahead of the pivotal encounter, both Fae and Gradel expressed gratitude for the unwavering support of the fans, vowing to give their all to ensure victory on home soil. “Fans are with us, and this motivates us to give us the best,” Gradel affirmed, acknowledging the crucial role of supporters in driving the team forward.
