This week Goal.com spoke to Kafoumba Coulibaly, OGC Nice player and Ivorian international with regards to his national team, as well as the French side.
By Marie Ange Kostoff/Goal dot Com
In this special series we bring you the local knowledge of the world's leading football tournament. With our worldwide team of experts, each one based in the country in question - from Brazil to North Korea - you'll hear first-hand the latest team news, exclusive interviews, and fan opinions of your World Cup opponents.
OGC Nice player and Ivorian international Kafoumba Coulibaly spoke to Goal.com in an interview, and he had a number of interesting things to say.
Goal.com - Kafou, what is your target for the World Cup in June?
Kafou: First of all, to go to the World Cup! It is really important for me. And then, of course, to have a good World Cup!
Goal.com - The Ivory Coast will meet Brazil, Portugal and North Korea. What do you think about your opponents in Group G?
Kafou: [He smiles] It is the most difficult group! To face Brazil, Portugal and Korea will not be easy. Even North Korea must not be underestimated. We don't really know this team, so it will be even more difficult. Brazil and Portugal are two great teams. We know the way they play, so it will be an advantage. But this group will not be easy.
Goal.com - What was your first reaction after the draw for the 2010 World Cup?
Kafou: First, we were stunned. Later, we were really excited! It is not every day we can meet Brazil and Portugal! It will be great to play against such teams. It will be a huge pleasure to face players like Cristiano Ronaldo and Ronaldinho. For me, it is simply huge.
Goal.com - Who is the most difficult rival in Group G?
Kafou: Brazil! Honestly, this team frightens us a bit. [He laughs] It will be hard to beat them. They have a big team, with some great players. They are simply impressive.
Goal.com - How far can Ivory Coast progress at the World Cup?
Kafou: I think we can go far. Why not? First, it is imperative to go through the group stage. We need to concentrate on this target. We have three matches. First we need a win, and then a draw. This can send us through. Seriously, I think we will go through the group stage. Afterwards, I don't know how far we can progress.
Goal.com – Considering that you play in France, let's talk about the French team. France will meet South Africa, Mexico and Uruguay. What do you think about the opponents in Group A?
Kafou: Some people can think this group is easy, but it isn't. It will be difficult to face the hosts. The home fans will help South Africa. But either way, I think France will go through the group stage.
Goal.com - How far can France progress at the World Cup?
Kafou: Honestly, this team can progress far at the World Cup. There are good players in the French team. I think Les Bleus have a good level. France can achieve a very good World Cup.
Goal.com - You live in France. After the Ivory Coast, are you going to support France?
Kafou: Yes, of course! I live in France, so it is obvious. After the Ivory Coast, I will support France.
Goal.com - Finally, who are your favourites for the World Cup 2010?
Kafou: Spain. Maybe France will reach the quarter-final, semi-final, or even the final. But for me, Spain will win the World Cup. Even against France. Spain’s team is just great.
No comments:
Post a Comment