GOLNOIR



	COTE D'IVOIRE Depending on who you talk to, The Ivory Coast had either one of the better sides in Africa or one of its most disappointing. The Elephants had always produced some talented players such as Joel Tiehl but international success has not been forthcoming, never having qualfied for the World Cup. However 2005 ended with Cote D'Ivoire having ascended into the upper echelon of African football having outlasted Cameroon and claimed a spot in the first World Cup in Germany. The Ivory Coast can at least claim one African Cup of Nations title from 1992 and have had some top 4 finishes and are making strides on the club level through teams such as ASEC Abdijan. Joel Tiehl retired after a lengthy career and helping the Ivory Coast capture the 1992 ACN(BBC) THE CURRENT SQUAD The Ivory Coast have often lost players who have wanted to play for France but players like Ibrahim Bakayaro almost brought the Ivory Coast to Asia in 2002. Now, Didier Drogba leads the charge for a talented side that also includes Bonaventure Kalou, Abdoulaye Meite and Arouna Koné. Ibrahim Bakayaro almost singlehandedly brought the Ivory Coast to Asia in 2002 (BBC) Bonaventure Kalou captains the Ivory Coast (AP) Bottom line: The Elephants are a team on the rise and much will be learned after qualifying and competing well at the 2006 World Cup IVORY COAST FACTS: Association: Fédération Ivoirienne de Football Founded: 1945 Soccer Confederation: CAF Colors: Green, White and Orange National Stadium: Felix Houphouet-Boigny Location: Abidjan Coach: Uli Stielike World Cup appearances: None HONORS: 1992 African Cup of Nations Elephants National Team News Domestic News Back to Preceeding Page










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