AFCON 2025: Faé Laments Costly Errors After Côte d’Ivoire’s Quarter-Final Exit to Egypt

Côte d’Ivoire head coach Émerse Faé has voiced his frustration following his side’s 3–2 defeat to Egypt in the quarter-finals of the 2025 CAF Africa Cup of Nations.

Mohamed Salah was central to Egypt’s victory, scoring a goal and providing an assist as the Pharaohs withstood sustained pressure from the Elephants. Despite Côte d’Ivoire’s dominance for large periods, Egypt’s clinical finishing proved decisive.

Reacting after the match, Faé said:

“We are frustrated by tonight’s result. We prepared well, but we made too many mistakes at key moments to hope to beat Egypt.

“It hurts to concede the first goal so early, and then the second. We reacted to make it 2-1, but the third goal put us in trouble.”

The Ivorian coach admitted that lapses in concentration ultimately cost his team a place in the semi-finals.

“It’s hard to explain these mistakes.

“We will continue to work hard as we prepare for the World Cup,” he added.

Despite the disappointment, Faé praised his players’ fighting spirit, particularly in the closing stages of the match, which he described as intense and highly competitive.

“Kessié, Fofana, and Diallo pressed until Guéla Doué reduced the deficit. The team never gave up.

“We laid siege with corners, crosses, and aerial balls, but Egypt’s defence, led by El Shenawy, held firm until the final whistle,” Faé said.

Côte d’Ivoire’s elimination brings an end to their title defence at the tournament. However, Faé insisted that his focus remains on strengthening the team as they prepare for future international competitions.

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