Ivory Coast, the host of the Africa Cup of Nations, will be without star striker Sebastien Haller as they face Guinea-Bissau in the opening game of the tournament on Saturday. The Borussia Dortmund forward, who has been struggling with an ankle problem, will not be available for the Group A curtain-raiser at Abidjan’s Ebimpe Olympic Stadium. However, coach Jean-Louis Gasset expressed hope that Haller might recover in time to face Nigeria on January 18.

Gasset confirmed Haller's absence from the squad for the opening game and mentioned that there is a five-day gap before the next match, during which they will assess his condition. Despite enduring a challenging season with Dortmund, a fit Haller would likely lead the line for Ivory Coast as they aim for a third continental title.

In addition to Haller, Brighton and Hove Albion winger Simon Adingra is also set to miss the game against Guinea-Bissau due to a muscle injury. Gasset mentioned that both injured players had undergone scans, and the doctor was pleased with their progress. He expressed optimism about their recovery but did not specify when they would be able to return to action.

Ivory Coast is expected to progress from Group A, which also includes Equatorial Guinea. Gasset acknowledged the pressure of playing at home but emphasized the need to transform it into something positive for the players. He stressed the importance of respecting the opposition and getting off to a good start in the tournament.

Despite Guinea-Bissau's previous struggles in the AFCON, Gasset emphasized the need to respect all opponents and highlighted the competitive nature of the tournament.

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