AFCON 2023: Gasset welcomes Adingra and Haller ahead of Nigeria clash

The coach of the Elephants of Côte d’Ivoire, Jean-Louis Gasset, announced the state of health of Sébastien Haller and Simon Adingra before the match against the Super Eagles of Nigeria, scheduled for Thursday January 18, 2024 at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium – Ebimpé.

Although the two Ivorian attackers have resumed collective training with the rest of the national team, the French tactician is cautious about their participation in the second meeting of the 34th edition of the African Cup of Nations (AFCON2023).

“Sébastien Haller and Simon Adingra have resumed training with us. We are on schedule. We have one training left, we will see with the medical staff if they can take part in the match,” explained Gasset during the pre-match press conference held on Wednesday at the Media Center in Treichville.

It should be noted that both attackers were initially unavailable before the start of the competition, having missed the opening match won by the Elephants against Guinea-Bissau.

Despite their return to training, Jean-Louis Gasset has clearly indicated that he will not hesitate to take precautions. “We will see with the medical staff and the players if they can take part in the match,” he insisted.

Winners of their first match against Equatorial Guinea with a score of 2-0, the Elephants of Côte d’Ivoire face Nigeria on Thursday, January 18, 2024 from 5 p.m. at the Alassane Ouattara Olympic Stadium in Ebimpé.

Occupying first place in Group A ahead of Nigeria and Equatorial Guinea, a victory against Victor Osimhen’s side will maintain Ivory Coast at the top of the group and ensure their qualification for the round of 16 of the competition.

Thursday’s match also promises to be crucial for the Super Eagles of Nigeria, who risk compromising their qualification for the rest of the competition in the event of a defeat.