“They waited and punished us” — Kessié reveals how Egypt knocked out the champions

In partnership with

Foot Africa

·12 Januari 2026

“They waited and punished us” — Kessié reveals how Egypt knocked out the champions

Ivory Coast captain praises Pharaohs’ discipline and counter-attacking mastery

“They waited and punished us” — Kessié reveals how Egypt knocked out the champions

Video OneFootball

Ivory Coast captain Franck Kessie has acknowledged that Egypt’s tactical approach proved decisive in Saturday’s AFCON 2025 quarter final following the Pharaohs 3 - 2 victory in Agadir.

Egypt eliminated the reigning champions at Adrar Stadium to book semi final clash with Senegal on Wednesday ending Ivory Coast’s title defence.

Speaking after the match Kessie praised Egypt’s collective strength and admitted that their strategy unfolded exactly as planned.

“Egypt big team, In a big team anyone can make the difference not just one player.” the midfielder said.

He highlighted Egypt’s use of transitions as the key factor in the contest.

“Egypt rely on counter attacks and their plan worked against us” Kessie explained. “We knew we would have the ball and that they would allow us to keep possession. That’s exactly what happened.”