Ivory Coast head coach Emerse Faé has vowed his side will emerge stronger from their heartbreaking FIFA World Cup exit, thanking supporters for standing behind the Elephants and insisting the team’s progress will continue despite the painful defeat.
The African champions saw their World Cup journey end in cruel fashion after conceding a late winner in a 2-1 Round of 32 defeat to Norway, having battled back into the contest before their hopes were dashed in the closing moments.
Despite the disappointment, Faé chose to focus on the future, telling Ivorians that the experience gained during the tournament would serve as a foundation for the team’s continued development.
“Thank you to all the Ivorians for the support and for the positive vibes they sent us from Côte d’Ivoire,” Faé told reporters after the match.
“Unfortunately, we gave everything to go to the next round. We did our best to make the Ivorians proud of their national team.”
The defeat ended Ivory Coast’s first World Cup knockout appearance since lifting the continental title, but Faé believes the tournament has strengthened his squad and prepared them for future challenges.
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Rather than dwelling on the elimination, the coach promised the Elephants would learn from the experience and continue their upward trajectory.
“We will continue to work, continue to grow and come back stronger for the next competitions that will come very soon,” he said.
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Ivory Coast pushed Norway all the way and looked capable of forcing extra time after levelling the score, only to be punished late by a clinical Norwegian side inspired by Erling Haaland.
