Mali vs Ivory Coast Preview Match Feb 8, 2012

Mali was determined to make a surprise at the African Nations Cup semi-final match on Wednesday (02/08/2012). Mali will face the Ivory Coast. Players in terms of material, Mali is still less than the class of his opponents. However, these conditions would motivate the team to make a surprise.

Mali coach, Alain Giresse, is confident his side can tame the Ivory Coast. Former France midfielder is not concerned with the greatness of the team with the nickname "Africa Brazil" and reinforced by the top players who play in Europe, including striker Didier Drogba.

"It's a game. It's the game we'll have to be careful, but in fact it is a challenge for us," he told reporters ahead of the match in Libreville. "We will play with a slow tempo, then take advantage of all opportunities. We will not rush through this game and try to match them in every line of the field," added Giresse.

Mali step towards the semi-finals before conquering the little winding Gabon with a score of 5-4 in a shootout at the Stadium of Libreville. While the Ivory Coast is more convincing after eliminating host-Equatorial Giunea with striking figures 3-0.

Ivory Coast captain Didier Drogba praised his team-mates who have been displaying a game full of character. In Ivory Coast won the match by a score of 3-0, the 33-year-old striker scored two goals.

Ivory Coast scored a goal other opportunities as well as Yaya Toure The Elephants won the African Nations Cup trophy for the second time in their football history. The best momentum Drogba said, after 20 years of the Ivory Coast have never won the championship, now is the best momentum to end title drought facing the country.

"My teammates are always encouraging and very supportive of me," said Drogba. "I should be back in the game and I owe it to them for my goals," he added. "I'm happy to do it for them and I am proud of my teammates," he said.

"In 2006, we lost in the final and in 2008, we scored lots of goals but failed to reach the top of the party. Here, we have demonstrated the character," said Drogba.