Ivory Coast head coach Emerse Faé expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance after they secured qualification for the quarter-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with a dominant Round of 16 victory over Burkina Faso on Tuesday.
The defending champions delivered a commanding display at the Stade de Marrakech, running out 3–0 winners against the Stallions.
Manchester United winger Amad Diallo was influential in the win, opening the scoring after reacting quickly to a loose ball in the penalty area. He later provided an assist with a low cross that allowed Ousmane Diomande to double Ivory Coast’s advantage.
Burkina Faso attempted to respond in the second half, but Ivory Coast remained in control, and Bazoumana Touré scored the third goal to seal the result.
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Speaking after the match, Faé highlighted the importance of Ivory Coast’s collective effort, particularly their reaction whenever possession was lost.
“I really liked our reaction when we lost the ball. Every time possession was lost, the players reacted immediately,” said Faé.
“They were under pressure at times and put us in difficult situations, but they made a real effort to recover the ball very, very quickly. There were many interceptions, duels won and balls regained directly from the opponent’s feet. That aspect of our game pleased me a lot.
“What truly makes me happy is that beyond individual performances, it was the strength of the team in its entirety that really stood out tonight.”
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