"The Malian team is formidable. They possess strong midfielders and we anticipate a highly demanding match. However, we are equally tough and ready," Fae stated during the pre-game press conference.

The Elephants, who are hosting the prestigious tournament, secured their spot in the quarterfinals after a penalty shootout victory over Senegal in the round of 16.

Meanwhile, Mali advanced to the round of 16 after beating Burkina Faso.

"After our qualification against Senegal, we were able to proudly represent our nation, which was a difficult task from the very beginning. To secure a win, especially through penalties, was an incredibly emotional experience," commented the Cote d’Ivoire coach.

"I am not a magician and I have never claimed to be one. As a young coach, I am intimately familiar with this group. I have been with them for approximately a year and a half," Fae added.

In the group stage, Cote d’Ivoire suffered two back-to-back defeats - a 1-0 loss to Nigeria and an embarrassing 4-0 loss to Equatorial Guinea - after initially winning their opening match against Guinea-Bissau. 

The two-time African champs made it into the round of 16 only as one of the best thirds in the group stage after Morocco beat Zambia. 

The Elephants fired Frenchman national coach  Jean-Louis Gasset after losing to Equatorial Guinea and handed the reign to his 40-year-old assistant Fae - a former national team star.

"Following the adversity we faced against Equatorial Guinea, I had great confidence in the squad. I was able to provide them with the necessary encouragement and guidance," the Cote d’Ivoire coach explained.

"We will prepare a team that will face Mali by focusing on quality. We will emphasize our strengths and ensure maximum concentration within our squad," concluded Fae.

Check the AFCON matches

Check the AFCON stats

(For more sports news and updates, follow Ahram Online Sports on Twitter at @AO_Sports and on Facebook at AhramOnlineSports.)

Follow us on:

Facebook

Instagram

Whatsapp