Ivory Coast launched their 2023 AFCON campaign with a victory on Saturday, presenting Kenya with significant considerations ahead of their World Cup qualifier in June.
Even though the Harambee Stars are not present at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, their focus is likely on the developments in Ivory Coast. This interest stems from the fact that two of their upcoming adversaries in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, Ivory Coast and Gambia, are competitors in the tournament.
This situation provides coach Engin Firat not just a chance to observe but also to assess the strengths and weaknesses of these two teams, both of whom are among the top contenders in Kenya’s Group F.
Firat must have been given much to contemplate following Ivory Coast’s 2-0 win over Guinea-Bissau in their opening match on Saturday.
The Ivory Coast team boasts a formidable offense that the Harambee Stars’ defense will need to counter. Despite the absence of key players Sebastien Haller, due to injury, and Wilfried Zaha, not selected for the tournament, the team still proved challenging for their opponents.
Captain Seko Fofana scored an impressive goal from just outside the penalty area early in the game, sending fans into a frenzy. The Ivorians created several more chances before halftime, demonstrating their offensive prowess.
Kenya’s coach Firat must be strategizing on how to defend against the Ivory Coast when they meet in Nairobi in June.
The Ivorian team also showed strength in midfield, led by Jean-Louis Gasset. Franck Kessie played a crucial role in this area, aiding in their swift start. The midfield also included Fofana and Ibrahim Sangare from Nottingham Forest, indicating a solid strategy moving forward.
However, there’s a glimmer of hope for Kenya. The Ivorian defense appeared vulnerable, conceding multiple opportunities that could have changed the game if not for the African Wild Dogs’ lack of finishing precision.
This suggests that if the Stars play assertively, especially on home turf, and capitalize on their chances, they could potentially score against the Ivorians.
