Former Ivory Coast captain Didier Drogba says the hosts should put in everything to win the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title.

Drogba, who is delighted to see his nation host the rest of Africa, wants them to win their third title.

“The African Cup of Nations is the celebration of African football. Of course, I want Ivory Coast to win.

“We are going to fight; we are at home; we have to show that we cannot only host the competition but also put in a good performance,” the former Chelsea striker said.

He added, “Ivory Coast is faced with its responsibilities; it must perform. All the teams that are here deserve to be here; they have their chances, so it is up to us to ensure that we respect them, but above all, to show that we are able to stand up to these teams.”

After two games, Ivory Coast have three points and will have to overcome Equatorial Guinea in their final group game to gain automatic qualification.

“It’s going to be the celebration of African football with a team from Equatorial Guinea, which progresses every year. We are happy to have them here. I saw that they won their match; congratulations to them, but it will be difficult against us,” he said.

Drogba finally took the opportunity to send a message to the younger generation who dreamed of following in his footsteps and taking their education seriously.

“You have to dream and give yourself the means to make your dreams come true.

“You also need to give yourself several options. I think it is very important to have a good academic background, to study well in class, and to have a good educational base, which will then allow you to be able to respond and take on all the challenges of life in general,” he concluded.