Preview: Ivoirians still sharp despite Togo withdrawal

الإثنين، 11 يناير 2010 - 03:00

كتب : Sherif Tarek

Ivory Coast have definitely benefited from Togo’s withdrawal from the African Cup on Nations (CAN) but striker Didier Drogba said the Elephants will underestimate no opponents, ahead of their opener against Burkina Faso.

The Togolese side were ambushed by gunmen as they arrived in Cabinda on Friday, which resulted in the death of their assistant coach, spokesman and bus driver.

Later on, they announced that they would take no part in the nations cup, which makes the Ivoirians, Ghana and Burkina the only teams in Group B.

Ivory Coast, who are favorites to win the biennial competition, will kick off their campaign by facing Burkina whose qualification chance are deemed slim.

Drogba, who won’t participate in next CAN editions, stressed that his side wouldn’t be lenient against Burkina.

"We will treat every opponent with respect, humility and seriousness,'' Chelsea star Drogba said.

"There is no room for complacency like in Ghana (2008 nations Cup). No game is won in advance.''

Team News

Ivory Coast have no absentees and all their key players are expected to be fielded in Monday's game.

Burkina will be missing striker Aristide Bance, who refused to join the Sparrow Hawks as a result of a disagreement with head coach Hubert Velud.

Ivory Coast finished as runners up in the 2006 nations cup, and fourth in the next edition.

Burkina's best CAN finish was fourth place in 1998, when they hosted the competition.

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