Cote d’Ivoire’s head coach Patrick Beaumelle has lauded his charges for a significant display against Algeria.
Cote d’Ivoire edged Algeria 3-1 to finish top of Group E and eliminate the title holders from the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations, Cameroon 2021.
The Elephants produced a dominant performance in Douala to sink the reigning champions with goals from Franck Yannick Kessie, Ibrahim Sangare and Nicolas Pepe.
The Desert Foxes reduced the deficit 17 minutes from through substitute Soufiane Bendebka while captain Riyad Mahrez saw his penalty came of Badra Ali Sangare’s post.
According to Beaumelle, if they maintain Thursday’s performance, they can have something at the end.
“It’s an almost perfect match, a lot of satisfaction, heart and courage,” Beaumelle said before adding.
“Unlike other matches, we managed to put in the necessary ingredients with success at the end.”
“Tonight, a lot of positive things and if we continue like this, we can have something at the end.”
“On this meeting, unlike Algeria who lacked confidence, we entered the game, with less negative pressure being assured of qualification,” he added.
The victory confirmed top spot for Cote d’Ivoire ahead of Equatorial Guinea who beat Sierra Leone 1-0 in Limbé to finish second.
Cote d’Ivoire will meet Egypt and Mali are due to clash with Equatorial Guinea in the round of last 16.
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