In a matchup of two teams with differing mentalities, a relaxed Ivory Coast side hosts Ethiopia knowing they have AFCON qualification secured while their opponents likely need a result. Ethiopia will be attempting to overcome a history of struggling mightily on the road to get at least a draw against The Elephants, who they upset in the earlier meeting between the two teams in Bahir Dar.
Fraternité Matin gives several reasons why Ivory Coast will not be taking the match as a training exercise. The squad visited the grave of the late former Ivorian Football Federation president Augustin Sidy Diallo leading up to the game, with several players visibly struggling to contain their emotions. There will be a motivated Ivorian squad to not only gain revenge for the prior defeat but to pay tribute to the late administrator.
