Côte d’Ivoire have been dealt a major setback ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations following the withdrawal of striker Sébastien Haller due to injury, raising fresh concerns over the champions’ attacking depth.
The forward sustained the injury while playing for Dutch side FC Utrecht last weekend, forcing the medical team to rule him out of the tournament after further assessment.
Haller’s absence represents a significant loss for the Elephants, not only because of his goalscoring pedigree but also his influence and experience within the squad assembled by head coach Emerse Faé.
The former West Ham United striker etched his name into Ivorian football history at the last AFCON, scoring the decisive goal in the dramatic 2-1 final victory over Nigeria’s Super Eagles.
Côte d’Ivoire have moved swiftly to name a replacement, calling up Evann Guessand, who was initially placed on the standby list for the tournament.
Guessand, currently on the books of Premier League side Aston Villa, will now have the opportunity to stake his claim on the continental stage after receiving a late invitation into the squad.
As preparations intensify, attention will turn to how Côte d’Ivoire adapt without one of their most reliable performers, with fans hopeful the reigning champions can overcome the setback and mount another strong AFCON title defence.
