Drogba wary of complacency

Skipper says side have learnt harsh lessons from 2008

Last updated: 8th January 2010   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Drogba wary of complacency

Drogba: Improved

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Didier Drogba insists Ivory Coast have learnt the harsh lessons from their last-four exit from the African Nations Cup in Ghana in 2008.

The Elephants crashed out 4-1 to eventual winners Egypt two years ago and the Chelsea striker is adamant that the team will not be as complacent as last time out.

The Ivorians are the bookmakers' favourites to win the tournament which starts in Angola on Sunday and the 31-year-old is all too aware of the expectation placed on the team's, and in particular his, shoulders.

Drogba stated: ""We will treat every opponent with respect, humility and seriousness.

"There is no room for complacency like in Ghana. No game is won in advance."

Meanwhile Coach Vahid Halilhodzic believes the Elephants are better equipped to deal with the pressure compared to two years ago.

"This generation has a responsibility," he said.

"They do not have to fail like the previous teams because they have learnt from past mistakes. Today they have the arduous task of bringing glory to the land especially in the face of hope and expectancy."

The Ivorians start their campaign against Burkina Faso on Monday January 11 before taking on Ghana on the 15th and Togo on the 19th.