Former international player Emerse Fae was recognized as the Best Coach of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations for his significant role in leading Côte d’Ivoire to a remarkable comeback during the tournament.
After facing near elimination with a 1-0 defeat to Nigeria and a humiliating 4-0 loss to Equatorial Guinea, Fae took over as caretaker coach and guided the team to an impressive turnaround.
Under his leadership, Côte d’Ivoire eliminated defending champions Senegal, overcame Mali with a sensational comeback victory in extra time, and secured a comfortable win over DR Congo in the semifinals.
In the final showdown at the Alhassane Ouattara Stadium in Abidjan, the Elephants staged a memorable comeback to secure a 2-1 victory over favorites Nigeria.
Despite William Troost-Ekong putting Nigeria ahead, Franck Kessie equalized in the 62nd minute before Sebastian Haller netted the winning goal from Adingra’s cross.
This triumph not only adds to the Ivorians’ previous Nations Cup wins in 1992 and 2015 but also marks a historic moment as they become the first tournament hosts to triumph since Egypt lifted the trophy in 2006.
