Faé Defends Ivory Coast Squad Calls as Title Defence Begins
Ivory Coast head coach Emerse Faé has stood by his controversial squad selections as the Elephants begin their bid to retain the Africa Cup of Nations title, a feat last achieved by Egypt in 2010.
Since then, AFCON has produced a different champion at nearly every edition, with Ivory Coast the only side to break the pattern by lifting the trophy in 2015 and again on home soil in 2023.
The defending champions open their Group F campaign against Mozambique on December 24, before facing Cameroon and Gabon in Morocco. With an expanded knockout format, progression is expected — but Faé has been forced to justify several high-profile omissions.
Pepe and Adingra Left Out
The exclusions of Nicolas Pepe and Simon Adingra sparked debate, but Faé insists his decisions go beyond form alone.
“If we considered only the sporting aspect, Pepe would be with us,” Faé said. “But squad selection involves many on- and off-field factors.”
On Adingra, the coach added: “He is struggling for regular starts at Sunderland, and that influenced our choice.”
Zaha Returns
Former Crystal Palace winger Wilfried Zaha has been recalled after a three-year absence, rewarded for strong form in MLS with Charlotte FC.
“His ability to beat defenders and create chances made the difference,” Faé explained.
Group F Outlook
Ivory Coast enter the group as favourites, though Cameroon remain the biggest threat despite recent instability following their failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
With momentum from last year’s dramatic title run — where Faé guided the team from near-elimination to champions — Ivory Coast will again look to thrive under pressure as they chase back-to-back AFCON crowns.
