In a strategic move to enhance its preparation for the African Cup of Nations , the Ivorian Football Federation has unveiled the list of 27 players ahead of their friendly clash with Leone Stars of Sierra Leone on Saturday 6th January, 2023 at the Laurent Poukou De San. Pedro Stadium.

While Former Arsenal Forward Nicolas Pepe make his return in the squad, Wilfred Zaha and Hamed Junior Traore were left out due to illness.

Meanwhile, The Sierra Leone Football Association has also announced a list of 21-man squad to face the Elephants of Ivory Coast in the upcoming international friendly.

The last time the two team met was in 2022 when Sierra Leone scored a dramatic equaliser deep into stoppage time to snatch a 2-2 draw against Ivory Coast at the Africa Cup of Nation.

Ivory Coast has reportedly invested more than $1 billion in roads, stadiums, hospitals and other infrastructure relating to host the AFCON competition, which will take place in multiple cities from Jan. 13 to Feb 11.