With only 23 days until the start of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AfCON), former Ivory Coast striker Didier Drogba has issued a warning to his country.
Ivory Coast, who are the hosts of the tournament, were drawn with three-time winners Nigeria, Equatorial Guinea, and Guinea-Bissau.
Drogba, who lost the AfCON trophy to Zambia in the final in 2012, has predicted a difficult group stage for the Elephants.
“There’s no such thing as a generous draw,” Drogba was quoted as saying by BBC Sport. “All the teams deserve to be here and they’re going to fight.”
On facing Nigeria, Drogba said, “Nigeria, with Victor Osimhen and all the players they have, is a big team. We mustn’t forget the other two teams because there are always surprises.”
“I think that our main asset will be to focus on our game, our team, our strengths and try to progress. It’s up to us to make the most of it…. Get behind our team and make sure the trophy stays at home,” concluded Drogba.
The AfCON is set to begin on January 13, 2024, with Ivory Coast facing Guinea-Bissau in the opening match.
