
Ivory Coast head coach Emerse Fae has boldly declared his team will retain their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title in Morocco.
Speaking at the tournament draw in Rabat, Fae expressed confidence his team could achieve a historic defense, last accomplished by Egypt in 2008.
The Elephants are grouped with Cameroon, Gabon, and Mozambique in Group F, with their title defense beginning against Mozambique on December 24 in Marrakesh.
“The trophy is coming back to Abidjan,” Fae stated, emphasizing the importance of thorough preparation for success in the fiercely competitive tournament.
Fae, who took over after a disastrous 2024 campaign, led Ivory Coast to an inspiring turnaround, culminating in their 2-1 victory over Nigeria in the final.
Elsewhere, Egypt, seven-time champions, are placed in Group B alongside South Africa, Angola, and Zimbabwe, a group many consider the toughest.
Coach Hossam Hassan highlighted the spotlight on stars Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush but urged fans to watch for rising Egyptian talents.
Host nation Morocco, led by Walid Regragui, faces Comoros, Mali, and Zambia in Group A, with their campaign kicking off in Rabat on December 21.
Regragui acknowledged the weight of expectations, as Morocco aims to claim their first AFCON title since 1976, relying on fervent home support.
This year’s AFCON will feature a record 24 teams and nine venues, with stadiums in Rabat, Agadir, Casablanca, Marrakesh, Fes, and Tangier.
The stage is set for an exhilarating tournament, with all eyes on the Elephants and their quest to make history in Morocco.