Senegal vs Côte d'Ivoire Preview | AFCON 2023

PREDICTED LINE-UPS

Senegal

PREDICTED XI (4-3-3): E. Mendy; Diatta, Koulibaly, A. Diallo, Jakobs; P. Sarr, Camara, P. Gueye; I. Sarr, H. Diallo, Mane

Côte d'Ivoire

PREDICTED XI (4-3-3): Y. Fofana; Aurier, Boly, Ndicka, Konan; Sangare, Kessie, S. Fofana; Bamba, Kouame, Pepe

PREDICTION

Ahead of this encounter, two of the most prominent names in African football find themselves in contrasting situations. Senegal, led by Aliou Cisse, are the defending champions and the only team to progress into the knockout stages with an impeccable 100% record in the group phase. Their opponents, Côte d’Ivoire, have recently parted ways with manager Jean-Louis Gasset and are in the process of offering a short-term deal to Herve Renard, who previously guided the Ivorians to victory in 2015. Even with the prospect of Renard's impressive presence, Senegal stand as overwhelming favourites against the host nation, who advanced as one of the four best third-placed teams.