Mali Head Coach Eric Chelle Explains Rationale Behind Unusual AFCON Gesture During Loss to Ivory Coast

Sekou Chelle went viral after his touchline reaction to his side getting knocked out in a dramatic AFCON 2023 quarterfinal against Ivory Coast

In one of the most memorable moments of AFCON 2023, Mali's head coach, Eric Chelle, became the centre of attention not just for his team's performance but for a particularly unusual gesture caught on camera during the high-stakes semifinal match against Ivory Coast. 

After his team conceded a dramatic winner in extra time, Chelle was seen receiving cold water poured over his head by an assistant, a sight that amused onlookers and added a poignant visual to the intense emotions of the game.

 A dramatic encounter between Mali and Ivory Coast

The match itself was a rollercoaster of emotions for both teams, with Ivory Coast securing their spot in the final after a hard-fought victory over Mali. The game saw Ivory Coast recover from an early penalty scare and a red card to win the semifinal berth, thanks to late goals from Simon Adingra and Oumar Diakite in normal and extra time, respectively.

Mali, having taken the lead through Nene Dorgeles, witnessed their hopes of advancement dashed in the most dramatic fashion. The intense nature of the game was evident, with both sides experiencing moments of despair and ecstasy within the span of 120 minutes.

Chelle's health scare

Explaining the rationale behind the gesture that caught the eye of many, Sekou Chelle disclosed that the dramatic turns of the match had taken a physical toll on him. 

"After the Elephants' second goal, I started to feel dizzy, my blood pressure was rising," Chelle revealed in an interview. The pouring of cold water was not a premeditated celebratory act but a quick response to a health scare. Chelle expressed his gratitude towards his compatriot, whose timely intervention with the cold water helped to stabilize his condition.

 The emotional toll of a memorable AFCON 2023 tournament

This incident underscores the intense emotional and physical stress that football coaches undergo, especially during crucial matches such as those in international tournaments. 

The high stakes of the game, combined with the rollercoaster of emotions experienced over the course of the match, can have a significant impact on a coach's well-being.

Despite the loss, Mali's performance throughout the tournament was commendable, showcasing their resilience and skill on the international stage. For Ivory Coast, the victory against Mali was a critical step towards their eventual triumph in the 2023 AFCON, where they defeated Nigeria 2-1 in the final, igniting celebrations across the nation.

Sekou Chelle's unusual gesture during the AFCON semifinal loss to Ivory Coast was a stark reminder of the pressures and emotional toll of competitive football on coaches. While the image of Chelle getting doused with cold water will remain one of the enduring images of AFCON 2023, it also highlights the deep passion and commitment of coaches to their teams and the sport. 

As the dust settles on the tournament, both Mali and Ivory Coast can look back on their performances with pride, having contributed to a memorable edition of the African Cup of Nations.

Related content