Ivory Coast Manager Explains Why His Team Lost Crucial AFCON Match to Equatorial Guinea

• The 2023 Africa Cup of Nations continues to unfold in quite a surprising fashion
• Host nation, Ivory Coast suffered a devastating defeat versus Equatorial Guinea
• Elephants coach, Jean-Louis Gasset has provided a reason for his team’s defeat

The 34th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) continues to unfold in the least expected way.

A series of surprising results recorded so far in the competition has left some nations shell-shocked and minnows are steadily shaking off that mantle.

One particularly astonishing result was the surprise defeat of the host nation, Ivory Coast, at the hands of Equatorial Guinea on Monday night (January 22).

The Nzalang Nacional convincingly triumphed over Les Elephants in front of a 60,000-capacity crowd at the Stade Alassane Outtara.

Despite Ivory Coast's relentless offensive efforts, the game played out in a manner contrary to expectations, with the Ivorians conceding four goals.

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The seemingly implausible result has left the host's chances of qualifying for the round of 16 hanging by a thread, causing widespread scepticism among fans.

Amid this disappointment, the national team's coach, Jean-Louis Gasset has offered an explanation for his side's unexpected loss.

Ivory Coach explains reason for AFCON defeat

In his post-match press conference, the septuagenarian gave his thoughts, as reported by CAF Online.

"There are matches that feel like nightmares, where everything seems to go against you. We conceded a goal in the first half, the opponent's only opportunity.

"We scored goals that were disallowed; it was a perfect disaster. Despite having three points and winning a match, we are in a situation where the four best third-placed teams qualify, and we have to hope."

Gasset also expressed his belief that Ivory Coast has an efficiency problem.

"In 180 minutes, we didn't score a goal, and yet we made substitutes to have more attackers. Today, the result was catastrophic. I know that I am the main responsible person."

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The defeat has seemingly dashed Les Elephants' hopes of qualification, sparking a wave of reactions with many expressing sadness at the potential elimination the nation faces.

Ghana journalist slams Black Stars

Sports Brief also previously reported on a Ghanaian journalist slamming the Ghana Black Stars following the disappointing draw against the Mambas of Mozambique.

Chris Hughton’s side needed to secure a win to confirm their place in the AFCON knockout stages, but late goals from Geny Catamo and Reinildo Mandava dashed their hopes.