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Drogba, who once helped stop a civil war in his country, has revealed that his nation hosting the AFCON is bringing a sense of pride for him.
Ivorian football icon, Didier Drogba has expressed pride at seeing his nation host the 34th edition of the CAF Africa Cup of Nations.
Ivory Coast will host the tournament from 13 January – 11 February, with 24 nations in the running to lay their hands on the coveted price.
Speaking to CAFOnline recently, the global football icon who has contributed immensely to African football’s rich history says seeing his nation host the competition brings a sense of pride for him.
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Nigeria have massively underwhelmed since winning the trophy in 2013, incluing failing to qualify for back-to-back tournaments in 2015 and 2017.
“It brings a sense of pride for me. The last time was in 1984,” the former Chelsea star said.
“The fact of having worn the jersey of the national team and now seeing the tournament hosted on home soil is exceptional.
“ We are very happy to welcome all of Africa. It is going to be a party,” said Cote d’Ivoire’s all-time leading goalscorer (65).
Despite not lifting the title, Drogba has very good memories of the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON.
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Salah has revealed he is happy to be taking part in the tournament and wants to win it at the third time of asking, having missed out on the crown in 2017 and 2021.
“It is the most beautiful competition for all Africans. I was inspired by Roger Milla, Gadji Celi, Youssouf Fofana and many others.
“Our legends were revealed in this tournament. Laurent Pokou for example and others. For us it’s the celebration of African football.
“The unity of a continent to see Sadio Mané, Obi Mikel, it's Africa's party for a month”, said the former skipper who played in two finals (2006), (2012) where they fell against Egypt and Zambia.
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The former Liverpool man inspired the side to their first ever AFCON trophy in 2021.
Drogba, who once unified the country when it was in the middle of a war in the late 2000s, further emphasised that visitors can expect a warm and friendly reception from the people of Cote d’Ivoire.
“We have a very beautiful country. A hospitable nation and we know that the competition will go well. We are ready to welcome the world. It’s a privilege to receive so many guests in Cote d’Ivoire.”
Follow our Pulse Sports WhatsApp channel for more updates.
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