"We are relieved to have won" - Gasset after Cote d'Ivoire's winning start

Cote d'Ivoire coach Jean-Louis Gasset expressed his relief after a 2-0 victory over Guinea-Bissau launched their TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations campaign on a winning note.

The veteran French manager said getting three points in Saturday's pressure-filled opener in Abidjan was paramount.

"We are relieved to have won this very stressful match," Gasset told reporters after the Group A clash.

"It's the start of the tournament and it was crucial to begin with a victory at home."

However, Gasset identified flaws in his side's performance that must be addressed before facing Nigeria on Wednesday.

"We struggle to manage spells when we don't have the ball and need to be more clinical up front," the 69-year-old conceded.

Nonetheless, Gasset remains confident his side can raise their level against the talented Super Eagles.

"We know Nigeria's strengths - their attacking line-up is impressive and their striker is the best in Africa," he said.

Gasset was referring to Napoli hitman Victor Osimhen, recently crowned African Player of the Year after plundering goals in Serie A.

"We will have to improve but having got the opening match pressure off, I'm sure my players will step up," Gasset added.

After launching their campaign in winning style, the Ivorians now tackle a major test when they host three-time AFCON winners Nigeria.

But if Gasset can tighten up defensively and sharpen his side in the final third, Ivory Coast have the quality to eye continental glory on home soil.