Cote d’Ivoire eye Benin victory to douse tension

The Elephants have targeted the maximum points against Benin in this weekend’s 2012 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Accra to douse tension back home.

The political turmoil in the wake of presidential elections compelled the Confederation of African Football to relocate the game to Accra, and the team is banging on victory as the biggest gift to Ivorians at this crucial time.

Head Coach Francois Zahoui told a media briefing on Thursday that the situation back home remains fresh in their minds, that he describes a normal feeling.

“It is normal that we feel that way. There is a lot of pain and sorrow in our minds and it gives us extra motivation to go all out for victory.

“Victory will mean a lot to the people of Cote d’Ivoire,” said Zahoui.

Midfielder Didier Zokora added that the country has been going through some difficult moments, that there can be no better option than victory.

“Our country is going through a lot and the best way we can make them happy is by winning against Benin.”

The Elephants lead the pack in the group with six points from two games and victory against Les Ecuriels will move them closest to the final tournament to be staged in Gabon and Equatorial Guinea in 2012.

Source: GNA