The Elephants defeated Australia 1-0 today, to move on to the next stage. They will face Nigeria next, a foe they are very familiar with. I’m feeling giddy, so I wanted to post a quick note! I’ll be back later with a preview of the next match….

Hooray!

Well, that isn’t exactly a guarantee, but…..it looks like des éléphants are beginning to show the confidence to match their skills.

Here’s a link to the article (French):

Here is a short summary:

The Serbians felt the wrath of our poor showing against Argentina. We knew that if we lost, our chances of advancing to the next round would evaporate. In the tune up matches, I didn’t score many goals, but so far during this tournament I have been putting the ball in the back of the net. We are starting to play well together. We know the Australians and we know what it takes to beat them.

Cisse also talks a little about his move to the left side of the attack. He says that Gili asked him to play a false left winger, but he is not really comfortable at that position. He likes to attack.

The Ivorians proved a lot in their match against Serbia and I look forward to the Australians. Advancement to the next round is well within reach…

Incase you missed it:
Cote d’Ivoire v. Serbia

The Australia/Serbia tie bodes well for Cote d’Ivoire right now…

The answer, of course, is Yamoussoukro.

If you knew the answer to that, then you are one step ahead of me. You might then ask why I would write a blog about the Cote d’Ivoire national team. The answer is simple, sort of. First off, I have a passion for African football. I love the more agressive, yet stylistic nature of game on the massive continent. More importantly, though, is the fact that I am a Chelsea supporter, so clearly I have links to the tiny west-African country. Even as the transfer rumors swirl, my interest in Drogba’s native land continues. Finally, about a month back I had the opportunity to see Salomon Kalou play in a charity game with the likes of Steve Nash, Thierry Henry, Jozy Altidore and, well, Baron Davis, among others. I was absolutely floored by him. He seemed about twice as fast as his competition and always one step ahead. My eyes were glued on him the whole game. Why isn’t this guy in the Chelsea XI??? He is absolutely phenomenal.

Well, I think it’s time for the world to take notice. This tournament will be the big coming out party for Mr. Kalou. He will be center stage for an Elephants team without an exception player. He will be asked to rise above and, mark my words, he is going to do it. Be prepared Argentina.

Here are a few pics from the game. Kalou was so fast that I could barely capture any shots!

I’ll be back tomorrow after the big game to ring in with my thoughts. Let me know what you guys think. More information on Cote d’Ivoire can be found here.