Senegal faces hosts Côte d’Ivoire in 2023 AFCON round of 16 clash

Caretaker January 29, 2024

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Seko Fofana celebrates after scoring the first goal of the 2023 AFCON

Defending champions Senegal are set to face the host nation, Côte d’Ivoire, in the Round of 16 clash of the 2023 TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The highly anticipated match is scheduled to take place on Monday, 29th January at the Charles Konan Bani Stadium in Yamoussoukro.

Senegal, led by coach Aliou Cisse, enters the knockout stage unbeaten after securing victories in the group stage. The Teranga Lions aim to maintain their strong performance and progress further in the tournament.

Senegal are set to face the host nation, Côte d'Ivoire, in the Round of 16 clash of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations — **Sadio Mane will be expected to lead Senegal’s charge vs Cote d’Ivoire**

Côte d’Ivoire, on the other hand, had a challenging group stage, progressing with only 3 points as one of the best third-placed teams. The Elephants, coached by Faye Emers, are eager to rectify their recent shortcomings and deliver a compelling performance in front of their home crowd.

Senegal’s coach Aliou Cisse expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance in the group stage and emphasized the need for focus in the upcoming match. He acknowledged Côte d’Ivoire as a formidable opponent and expects a difficult encounter.

Senegal defender Moussa Nyakhate highlighted the team’s focus on their defensive and attacking strategies. He praised the Senegalese team’s camaraderie and emphasized the importance of veterans mentoring younger players.

Côte d’Ivoire’s coach Faye Emers conveyed confidence ahead of the match, stating that the team is well-prepared and motivated. He emphasized the significance of the knockout round and the determination to progress further in the competition.

Midfielder Jean-Michael Seri expressed the team’s competitive spirit and the desire to win the continental title, especially as the host nation. He acknowledged the challenges faced in the group stage and emphasized the new competition within the knockout round.

The Senegal vs. Côte d’Ivoire clash promises to be a fiercely contested match, with both teams aiming to secure a spot in the quarter-finals of the AFCON 2023 tournament.