Cote D’Ivoire will take on Mali on Wednesday as both sides clash in the Orange CAF African Cup of Nations semi final. The game kickoff is 5:00 PM local time at Libreville, Gabon.
Both Elephants and Eagles qualified on the expense of the co-hosts. Cote D’Ivoire defeated Equatorial Guinea 3-0 while Mali needed penalty shootout to see off Gabon after regular and extra time ended in a 1-1 draw.
Mali who participated in the finals 7 times before is looking for their first ever title, as their best achievement was being runner ups in 1972, while the Ivoirians are dreaming of a second title to be added to their only trophy in 1992.
Cote D’Ivoire had a rest day after their quarter final game as their manager Francois Zahoui feared his players’ fatigue on his way for the title. On the other side his counterpart Alain Giresse refused to do the same for his players and had a light training session after his team guaranteed their semi final spot.
Zahoui seemed satisfied with his team’s performance so far in the competition. “I’m happy with my boys and what they’ve done till now. We’re moving steadily towards our ultimate goal which is the title. We came here not only to participate but to win the trophy, and we’re capable of that”, Zahoui said.
The Elephants manager praised his captain Didier Drogba saying “I’m convinced with my players especially Drogba who has been awesome. I see he gives all his best on and off pitch. He’s a unique player and made the difference for us”.
Mali manager Alain Giresse also praised his players’ performance so far despite suffering many absentees during their quarter final clash against Gabon, saying that he admired the way both teams played. The Frenchman insisted his team will do anything to qualify for the grand final.
