Ami Diallo (Côte d’Ivoire): “I will give everything for the team”

After more than a decade, Côte d’Ivoire are set to return to the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, driven by renewed ambition.

A continental finalist with ASEC Mimosas in the CAF Women's Champions League and a nominee at the CAF Awards, Ami Diallo has emerged as one of the leading figures of the Ivorian revival.

Twelve years of waiting, a rejuvenated generation, and a qualification lifeline transformed into collective ambition. Côte d’Ivoire’s return to the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations signals the beginning of a new chapter.

Benefiting from the tournament’s expansion from 12 to 16 teams, the Elephantes were reinstated by the CAF as one of the four highest-ranked teams according to the FIFA rankings. Far from approaching the competition as mere invitees, they arrive with firm determination to reassert themselves on the continental stage.

In this exclusive interview with CAFOnline.com, Ami Diallo reflects on the significance of this long-awaited return, the expectations surrounding the team, her personal development and the broader impact a strong performance could have on the future of women’s football in Côte d’Ivoire.

 

CAFOnline.com: What was your reaction when you learned that Côte d’Ivoire had been reinstated and would take part in this edition of the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations?

Ami Diallo: We received the news with humility and strong determination. It is a second chance for us, and we intend to make the most of it.

 

How is preparation progressing ahead of the tournament?

Preparation is going very well. There is great intensity and focus in our work. The technical staff are placing strong emphasis on tactical discipline, team cohesion and mental strength.

 

Côte d’Ivoire have not featured at the Women’s AFCON for more than twelve years. What expectations surround this return after such a long absence?

There are naturally high expectations. Ivorians are passionate about football and have been waiting eagerly for this return. That pushes us to give our very best and represent our country with pride.

There is renewed momentum in Ivorian women’s football, particularly following ASEC Mimosas’ run to the CAF Women’s Champions League final.

 

How can that collective experience benefit the team at this tournament?

We learned a great deal, especially about the demands of top-level football. Playing international matches builds character, improves how you manage pressure and strengthens confidence. That experience will be invaluable at the Women’s AFCON.

 

How do you assess the development of women’s football in Côte d’Ivoire in recent years?

There has been clear progress. Women’s football is gaining more visibility, organisation has improved, and there is growing interest from supporters and the media.

 

Following your performances in the Champions League and domestic competition, you were nominated for the CAF Awards in the Interclub Player of the Year category. What does that continental recognition mean to you?

It is a great source of pride. It reflects the work accomplished both with my club and the national team. Above all, it motivates me to continue working even harder to justify that trust.

 

Your head coach, Reynald Pedros, has significant experience in women’s AFCON tournaments. What kind of coach is he, and how does he contribute to your individual and collective progress?

Coach Reynald Pedros is highly experienced and demanding. He insists on tactical rigour and discipline, but he also trusts his players and pushes us to surpass ourselves individually so that we can become stronger as a team.

In your view, what will be the Elephantes’ main strength at this Women’s AFCON?

Our main strength will be our unity. We have a young, ambitious and tightly bonded group. If we remain focused and united, we can compete with any team.

 

What message would you share with young Ivorian girls who dream of following your path?

I would tell them to believe in their dreams, work hard and never give up.

 

More broadly, what would a strong performance from the Elephantes represent for the future of women’s football in Côte d’Ivoire?

It would create even more opportunities for women’s football. It would encourage more young girls to get involved and strengthen confidence in our discipline.

 

On a personal level, what can be expected from Ami Diallo at this Women’s AFCON?

You can expect commitment, hard work and leadership on the pitch. I will give everything for the team — whether that means scoring, defending or motivating my teammates.

 

Photos: Ivorian Football Federation