Online Reporter
COACH Emerse Fae has defended several contentious squad decisions as Cote d’lvoire attempt to become the first Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) holders to defend the title since Egypt did so 15 years ago.
Since Egypt defeated Ghana in the 2010 final, there have been eight Afcon tournaments that produced seven different winning nations.
The exception was Cote d’lvoire, who conquered Africa in 2015 after a penalty shoot-out with Ghana and triumphed again last year, coming from behind at home to edge Nigeria.
The Elephants, whose first of three AFCON titles came in 1992, begin their defence against Mozambique on December 24 in Group F, then face five-time champions Cameroon and Gabon.
All six mini-league winners and runners-up automatically advance to the round of 16 in Morocco. They will be joined by the best four third-placed teams.
It is difficult to imagine the Ivorians not progressing to the knock-out stage, and Fae is upbeat while answering critics of several selections. The exclusions of Villarreal forward Nicolas Pepe and Sunderland winger Simon Adingra were at the forefront of media criticism.
“If we were to consider only the sporting aspect, he (Pepe) would be with us,” said Fae, a 41-year-old former Cote d’lvoire midfielder.
“To make a list you have to take into account many factors, both on and off the field. All these factors have led to Nico not being on the list.”
Fae did not reveal what factors led to former Arsenal striker Pepe being omitted despite good form in LaLiga, where he won a player of the month award this season.
Turning to Adingra, Fae said: “Simon is struggling to earn a starting spot at Sunderland. We had to do without his qualities when making our selection.”
Former Crystal Palace winger Wilfried Zaha has been recalled after a three-year absence having impressed for Major League Soccer outfit Charlotte.
“His ability to beat defenders and his current form worked in his favour,” said Fae of an attacker who has scored 10 goals this season and created six more.
“Cote d’lvoire can benefit from his experience and capability to create scoring opportunities for team-mates.”
Fae became a national hero after Cote d’lvoire recovered from a woeful 2024 group campaign to beat Senegal, Mali, Democratic Republic of Congo and Nigeria to lift the most prized African trophy. — AFP Sport .
