ABIDJAN, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- As the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco heads into the round of 16, Ivorian supporters are expressing cautious optimism ahead of Tuesday's West African derby between Cote d'Ivoire and Burkina Faso, a fixture carrying both sporting and political overtones.
After topping its group with victories over Mozambique and Gabon and a draw with Cameroon, the Elephants will face Burkina Faso's Stallions, who finished second in their group, in Marrakech.
"We have great respect for Burkina Faso, but Cote d'Ivoire will win," said Pascal Koffi, a civil servant. Alexandre Diby, an auto electrician, shared the view, saying "it's a neighbors' match, but the Elephants will prevail." Hairdresser Cisse Awa was more cautious, noting that "football is not an exact science," while still expressing confidence in an Ivorian victory.
A derby historically favoring the Elephants
Three-time African champions, Cote d'Ivoire lifted its most recent AFCON trophy at home in 2024. Burkina Faso, runner-up in 2013 after losing the final to Nigeria, remains a formidable opponent but has historically struggled against the Ivorians.
Since 1976, the two teams have met 10 times in Confederation of African Football (CAF) competitions, with Cote d'Ivoire recording six wins, Burkina Faso two, and two matches ending in draws.
Sports analyst Franck Sylvanus expects Tuesday's encounter to be "tight and intense." He highlighted Cote d'Ivoire's "solid organization, strong tactical discipline and collective maturity," set against a Burkinabe side known for its "physical commitment, solidarity and intensity."
"This match pits Ivorian rigor and experience against Burkinabe combativeness and flair," he summed up. ■