Ivorian golden generation seek elusive silverware
JOHANNESBURG, Sept 7, 2012 (AFP) - Time is running out for Didier Drogba and other Ivory Coast 'golden generation' stars to capture the Africa Cup of Nations trophy.
The 'Elephants' were favourites to win the last four tournaments only to fall short each time with the most heartbreaking failure being the penalty shootout loss to Zambia in the final this year.
Drogba, Boubacar Barry, Kolo Toure and Didier Zokora are in the twilight of their careers as they launch another attempt to conquer the continent by hosting Senegal Saturday in a final round qualifier for the 2013 Cup of Nations.
It is the stand-out first leg fixture among 15 to be played this weekend with the return matches scheduled for October and the aggregate winners joining hosts South Africa at the January 19-February 10 tournament.
“This may be the last chance for this awesome generation and if the players are able to bring home the trophy it would be a tremendous gift for the entire nation,” says Ivory Coast coach Sabri Lamouchi. “My objectives are very clear -- to qualify this team for the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations and to do better than in the previous edition, that is to say, to win the competition.”
Time is running out for Didier Drogba and other Ivory Coast 'golden generation' stars to capture the Africa Cup of Nations trophy