Player Profile – Arthur Boka

Arthur Boka was born 2nd April 1983 in Abidjan. A first choice left back, the 23 yr old has played 7 times for the Ivory Coast having cemented his place in the African Nations cup tournament.

He started out his professional career in 1996 at ASEC Abidjan before moving to Europe with Belgian side Beveren in 2002. After 60 appearances and 5 goals he was snapped up by French League one side Strasbourg in 2004 and as been an almost ever present in their team since, helping them to win the French League cup in 2005.

He is relatively new to the national team, and made his debut in 2005 in a 3-0 friendly defeat to France. This was followed by a starting position in a 1-1 draw with Italy before being named as first choice left back for the African Nations Tournament where he played in 5 of the 6 games the Ivory Coast had including the Final against Egypt.

A key member of the Ivorian squad but he will be up against fast and tricky wingers in the World Cup.