Emerse Fae Says Ivory Coast Will Have Answers for Ecuador in World Cup Opener
The Elephants kick off their campaign at Philadelphia Stadium, where they will then face Germany and Curacao in Group E of the group stage. Ivory Coast, who have secured World Cup qualification four times, are aiming to move past the group stage.
The Ivorians have never progressed beyond the group stage. In their earlier tournament appearances, the nation depended heavily on a celebrated “Golden Generation” featuring global stars such as Didier Drogba and Yaya Touré.
Returning to the world stage after a twelve-year hiatus, Ivory Coast qualified as the reigning 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) champions.
Ivory Coast Unfazed
Talking to FIFA.com before the match, Fae acknowledged that Ecuador will present a tough challenge, but his side will be ready to counter every attack they face.
“It will be a battle,” said the Ivorian coach. “But that aspect of the game does not worry me. My team will have the answers for it.
“As long as we are well organised defensively, I like to give my players freedom,” Fae explained. “I like players who can create, who have imagination, who never do the same thing.
“Nowadays, with video footage everywhere, it is so easy for opponents to analyse us. We have to be unpredictable.”
Fae added: “We truly believe in our ability and think we can go very far.”
Guela Doue Aims for Strong Start
Ivory Coast defender Guela Doue highlighted the importance of beginning the tournament strongly.
“Our first game will be very important. We know that starting well and winning the match will put us in the best possible position to go further in the competition,” explained Doue.
“We feel very determined going into this game and we will leave no stone unturned in our preparations. We have players who are capable of unsettling the opposition in wide areas and scoring goals.”
Doue concluded: “We are about to play on the biggest stage in world football, and we are not just here to make up the numbers; our aim is to go as far as possible.
“We are representing Côte d'Ivoire and we will do everything we can to make our country proud.”
Bazoumana Toure, who plays for Hoffenheim, said: “When the game gets underway, I will be very emotional and happy, I will have goosebumps.
“Playing at the World Cup has truly been a huge dream of mine, as we have seen stars such as Gervinho and Didier Drogba grace this stage for our country before. And now it is our turn.”
Regarding the type of game Ivory Coast expects from Ecuador, the forward said: “They are physical, but so are we.
“They are strong defensively, but we also have some very good players going forward who can make the difference at any moment.
“Everyone is at the top of their game and I think the Ecuadorians could well be surprised by the way we will approach this game.”
After facing Ecuador, the Elephants will return to action against Germany on June 20th before finishing group stage matches against Curacao on June 25th at Philadelphia Stadium.