ICoast expected to win but Zambia emotions strong

By Gerald Imray

Associated Press

Published: Saturday, Feb. 11 2012 4:05 a.m. MST

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Zambia's soccer team coach Herve Renard attends a training session in preparations of their African Cup of Nations final soccer match against Ivory Coast in Libreville, Gabon, Friday, Feb. 10, 2012. Zambia will play against Ivory Coast on Sunday Feb. 12, 2012 at Stade de L'Amitie in Libreville.

Francois Mori, Associated Press

Summary

With a team packed full of Europe-based talent and on a run of five straight wins without conceding a goal, mighty Ivory Coast is expected to win its second African Cup of Nations title on Sunday.

LIBREVILLE, Gabon — With a team packed full of Europe-based talent and on a run of five straight wins without conceding a goal, mighty Ivory Coast is expected to win its second African Cup of Nations title on Sunday.

Yet opponent Zambia has a strong urge to finally succeed to honor the memory of its players who died in a plane crash 19 years ago.

A first major title for two-time losing finalist Zambia in the same city where the 25 players and officials lost their lives nearly two decades back would be a hugely poignant moment.

Ivory Coast's mean defense and star-studded attack, led by captain Didier Drogba, undoubtedly makes it the sensible choice for punters but the Zambians' emotionally charged run has ensured they can't be ignored.

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