Ivory Coast dreams of lifting AFCON 2023 are currently hanging by a thread after a shocking 4-0 mauling by Equatorial Guinea on Monday night.
Head coach Jean-Louis Gasset described the result as a “nightmare,” acknowledging their dominance in possession and chances but lamenting their lack of ruthlessness compared to Equatorial Guinea’s clinical finishing, Footballrover reports.
“It is a nightmare. We had prepared well for this match, and we got into this match well by going after them and setting the pace,” Gasset said in a post-match press conference, riddled with disappointment.
Despite controlling the game, Ivory Coast failed to convert their dominance into goals, while Equatorial Guinea pounced on minimal chances with ruthless efficiency.
???????? But wetin really happen wey Equatorial Guinea beat the host nation Ivory Coast 4 nil like that????
……………???? pic.twitter.com/0xcJJ9BR4n
— Football Fans Tribe ???????? ⚽ (@FansTribeHQ) January 22, 2024
This stark contrast left Gasset and the fans reeling; their pre-match confidence was shattered.
However, amid the despair, Gasset clung to a flicker of hope.
“I still believe we can qualify,” he declared, drawing optimism from their recent win and the unwavering support from the stands.
Their qualification fate now hangs in the balance, resting on Cameroon’s result against Gambia in Tuesday’s clash.
Ivory Coast can still qualify only if they can pray without ceasing ???? pic.twitter.com/0W64ETUiff
— Lawrence Aleku (@LawrenceAleku) January 23, 2024
If Cameroon loses, Ivory Coast will secure a spot in the Round of 16 as one of the four best third-placed teams.
But anything less leaves their World Cup aspirations teetering on the brink.
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