The Ivory Coast national team continues to impress at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after reaching the semi-finals despite playing with reduced players. Their 2-1 victory against Mali after 120 minutes showcased the determination and spirit of these “Elephants” from West Africa.
The match started at a fast pace, with Mali taking the lead in the 71st minute through Nene. However, Ivory Coast refused to give up, equalizing in the 90th minute with a goal from Adingra. The game went into extra time, where Ivory Coast capitalized on the opportunity and scored the winning goal through Diakite in the 120th minute.
This victory is special for Ivory Coast for several reasons. Firstly, they managed to win despite playing with two players less. Secondly, they turned the game around after conceding the first goal. Thirdly, they reached the semi-finals as the “best loser,” the team with the best results among those finishing third in their groups.
Ivory Coast’s success at AFCON teaches us the English proverb, “Actions speak louder than words.” Many doubted their ability to go far in the tournament due to various challenges, but they’ve displayed immense talent and surprised everyone.
Another proverb fitting for Ivory Coast’s story is “Hard work pays off.” This team has demonstrated dedication and effort since the beginning of the tournament, and now they’re starting to reap the rewards of their labor.
Ivory Coast will face the Democratic Republic of the Congo in the semi-finals, and they need to continue their brilliant play to reach the final. Undoubtedly, football fans across Africa will be eager to see if these “Elephants” can continue their shocking journey at AFCON.
Proverbs fitting for Ivory Coast’s story at AFCON:
- Actions speak louder than words.
- Hard work pays off.
- Don’t fear a roaring elephant, fear the silent foot that moves.
- A quitter never wins, and a winner never quits.
- Where there’s a will, there’s a way.
