Didier Drogba: Don’t call Cote d'Ivoire the favorite against Mali

The Chelsea’s talisman tells Goal.com that it’s a mistake to say the Elephants are a superior side compared to the Eagles, ahead of their 2012 AFCON semifinal clash.

Feb 7, 2012 12:13:00 PM

By Kingsley Kobo

More On :  Chelsea, Côte d'Ivoire, Didier Drogba
Cote d'Ivoire's Didier Drogba
Kingsley Kobo
LIBREVILLE, Gabon -- Cote d’Ivoire will face off against Mali on Wednesday in the second semifinal match of the ongoing 2012 Africa Cup of Nations and many analysts have tipped the Elephants to prevail over the Eagles by virture of talent, experience and historic advantage.

But Ivorian skipper Didier Drogba told Goal.com on Tuesday that such an analysis might be incorrect.

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“Games change, times change. Don’t always judge a team based on its past performances,” Drogba said.

“We train, play and learn everyday, so no team is static. Mali are a very strong side and we respect them. They have reached the semi-finals due to their strength, quality and competitiveness. So, they can play us like any other tough team would do.”

Mali won its quarterfinal challenge against Gabon on Sunday in a penalty shootout and now aspires to stand up against the star-studded Ivorian team on Wednesday despite unfavorable predictions. Many fear that fatigue from the previous encounter could worsen its stance in the game.

“That’s what some think, but three days are enough for the team to recuperate and be fully set to play us,” the Ivorian captain said.

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