Africa Cup of Nations hosts Ivory Coast will go into the opening game of the tournament on Saturday against Guinea-Bissau without Sebastien Haller as their star striker recovers from injury.
Elephants coach Jean-Louis Gasset confirmed Haller will not play in the Group A curtain-raiser at Abidjan's Ebimpe Olympic Stadium but suggested there was some hope he would return to face Nigeria on January 18.
Brighton and Hove Albion winger Simon Adingra is also set to miss out against Guinea-Bissau with a muscle injury and it remains to be seen when he will be able to feature.
Guinea-Bissau have never won a game in three previous appearances at the AFCON but did beat Nigeria away during qualifying.
Ivory Coast possible lineup: Fofana (GK); Aurier, Diomande, Ndicka, Konan; Kessie, Fofana, Sangare; Krasso, Boga and Bamba.
Guinea-Bissau possible lineup: Mendes (GK); Cande, Mane, Djalo; Mane, Semedo, Cassama, Rodrigues, Quizera; Gano and Balde.
January 13, 2024