Ivory Coast's national team coach, Emerse Faé, has announced his 25-man squad for the final two qualifiers of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), featuring notable inclusions of two South African-based goalkeepers. Veteran shot-stopper Ali Badara Sangare from Sekhukhune United and Ira Tapé from TS Galaxy have been called up as the Ivorians aim to secure their place in the upcoming tournament in Morocco. These crucial matches will see them face Zambia in Ndola on Friday, followed by a home game against Chad in Abidjan on November 19.
Ivory Coast, reigning AFCON champions after their victory on home soil in February, have faced mixed results in recent qualifiers. They need at least a draw in their away fixture against Zambia to guarantee progression to the 24-team tournament. Should they falter, victory against Chad would still secure their spot. The stakes are high, with the team looking to rebound from a disappointing loss to Sierra Leone last month that raised questions about their form.
The squad announcement brought some significant changes, with several players recalled after periods of absence. Tapé’s inclusion marks a notable moment, showcasing the potential seen in the TS Galaxy keeper. Defender Sinaly Diomandé from AJ Auxerre and midfielders Jean-Eudes Aholou and Lazare Amani, both key figures in their recent AFCON triumph, have also returned. Forward Vakoun Bayo has earned a recall after a long spell out of the team, alongside Jérémie Boga and fan-favorite Simon Adingra, who missed the last qualifiers due to injury.
However, some key names are missing. Eric Bailly, who endured a tough return to the squad last month, has been dropped along with midfielder Jean Michaël Seri, whose influence had been crucial earlier in the year. The absence of Manchester United’s Amad Diallo, despite his recent standout performance in the Europa League, also raised eyebrows.
The squad boasts a blend of experienced players and promising talents. The goalkeeping unit includes Yahia Fofana from Angers, alongside the South African-based duo of Sangare and Tapé. Defensively, Faé has called on talents such as Emmanuel Agbadou from Stade Reims and Evan Ndicka of AS Roma, while midfield stalwarts like Franck Kessie and Seko Fofana bring leadership and tactical awareness. The attack is bolstered by returning stars Adingra and Boga, who add flair and finishing power to the front line, supported by forwards like Nicolas Pepe and Benie Traore.
Faé’s tactical focus will be on solidifying the defensive lines and integrating returning players effectively to ensure consistency and resilience. The upcoming matches are pivotal for the defending champions, whose recent dip in form has created urgency within the squad to prove their mettle and secure a spot in Morocco. The matches also represent an opportunity for the South African-based goalkeepers to showcase their abilities on an international stage, highlighting the growing recognition of talent within the South African leagues.
With these final qualifiers, the pressure is on for Ivory Coast to demonstrate why they remain one of Africa's football powerhouses, defending their title and reasserting their presence among the continent’s elite teams.
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