Faé explains Zaha’s central role as Ivory Coast balance options up front

Ivory Coast head coach Emerse Faé has explained his tactical decision to deploy Wilfried Zaha at the tip of the attack following the Elephants’ clash with Mozambique, stressing flexibility and long-term planning as key themes of his approach at AFCON.

Speaking after the match, Faé revealed that the choice was part of a deliberate plan to play with three wingers. He pointed to the team’s preparatory work in Spain, where Zaha’s presence through the middle created space and allowed Amad Diallo and Yan Diomandé to thrive on the flanks. While acknowledging that Zaha is not a natural number nine, Faé emphasized that his technical quality brought clear benefits to the team’s attacking play.

“We know he’s not a striker by trade, but we felt his technical ability would help us,” Faé explained. He also noted that Ivory Coast’s struggles with efficiency in front of goal have not been exclusive to matches featuring a traditional striker.

Looking ahead, the coach underlined that rotation and adaptability will be essential over the course of a demanding tournament. “The AFCON is long,” Faé said. “We’ll play some matches with three wingers and others with a true number nine. We’ll rotate, because this competition is a long.”