Franck Kessié: “We are ready to defend our title”

On the eve of Côte d’Ivoire’s opening game of the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025, the Elephants' captain Franck Yannick Kessié has spoken to CAFonline.com about the pressure of their champions status, the team’s preparation and the mindset ahead of the game against Mozambique. The midfielder expressed calm, determination and confidence going into the game.

CAFonline.com: As reigning African champions, do you feel any particular pressure going into this tournament?

That’s normal. We are a team everyone wants to beat, and that inevitably brings extra pressure. But we took that into account from the start of our preparation. We know what it represents and we have worked to be ready to handle that responsibility.

CAFonline.com: What has this preparation focused on?

We worked on every aspect — technically, mentally and physically. The goal was to be ready not only on the pitch but also off it. In a competition like AFCON, mental management and team cohesion are just as important as tactical work.

How has the preparation for tomorrow’s game been going?

It is going very well. As we mentioned earlier at the press conference, we have worked seriously and we feel ready. We are really looking forward to getting our campaign underway tomorrow.

You will be facing an ambitious Mozambique side. How do you view this opponent?

We have a lot of respect for Mozambique. They are a solid team that plays without fear. But we also know what we want to do. Football is about being able to seize opportunities and score when they arise. We want to impose our game while remaining disciplined.

What message would you like to send to Ivorian supporters?

We know they expect a lot from us. From our side, we can assure them of one thing: the group is ready, focused and determined to defend this title. We will give everything from the very first match.