Ivory Coast must beat Tanzania to stay alive

Image redemption will be the main agenda on the minds of hosts Cote d’Ivoire as they face Tanzania in their second Group A clash on Wednesday at the ongoing African Nations Championship (CHAN).

The Elephants who were thrashed by the Chipolopolo of Zambia 3-0 in the opening match of the maiden edition of the tournament meant for players playing in their domestic leagues, and any result short of victory will be detrimental to their chances of progress.

The host team has also lost the confidence of their teeming fans who watched in disbelief as Zambia tore their team into shreds, and this places ample pressure on coach Georges Kouadio and his team to put a winsome performance to claim back the support.

Kouadio, who partly blamed the huge presence at the Felix Houphouet Boigny Stadium in the opening match as a contributing factor to the inability of his players to live up to expectation, believes his players have overcome that pressure and anticipates a better display against the Tanzanians.
“We have to win against Tanzania to remain on course, and we are working feverishly towards that.”

The Taifa Stars also lost their opening match by a lone goal against the Teranga Lions of Senegal, and a replica of that result ends their ambitions at their second ever major continental championship.
Tanzania coach Marcio Maximo, who had tipped the hosts as one of the favourites envisages a tough test against the Elephants, who will have the fullest backing of the whole of Cote d’Ivoire.

“It is always difficult playing against the host nation at every tournament. We are not here to participate but to compete and make our mark.
“We lost the first game and we can’t afford another loss again. We must avoid another loss to remain in contention and we are doing everything possible in that regard."

For either of the two sides, any result other than victory will seriously hamper their chances.

In the other Group A match, Zambia and Senegal, both winners in the opening day will clash earlier national stadium with the aim to consolidate their grip on the top spot.

Fixtures
Zambia vs. Senegal
Tanzania vs. Cote d’Ivoire