The Ivory Coast national team can breathe a collective sigh of relief. Forward Elye Wahi, a man whose raw pace and clinical finishing have made him a...
The Ivory Coast national team can breathe a collective sigh of relief. Forward Elye Wahi, a man whose raw pace and clinical finishing have made him a crucial cog in the Elephants' attacking machine, has been granted entry into Canada. This follows a rather alarming episode where he was initially denied access ahead of their crucial World Cup qualifier. GoalZaza has learned that the Ivory Coast football federation worked tirelessly to resolve the visa issue, a reminder that even in the modern era of global football, the administrative side of the game can throw up unexpected hurdles. For a player of Wahi's calibre, whose movement in transitional play can unlock the most stubborn of low blocks, being stuck at an airport instead of on the training pitch would have been a tactical disaster. One can only imagine the tension in the camp. Squeaky bum time, indeed. The prospect of facing a disciplined Canadian side without your primary outlet for counter attacking speed is enough to give any manager sleepless nights. Fortunately, common sense has prevailed, and Wahi will now link up with his teammates. This allows the coaching staff to maintain their tactical flexibility, whether they opt for a direct approach or look to exploit spaces in behind. For the supporters, this is more than just a bureaucratic win. It is a statement of intent. The Ivory Coast are not here to make up the numbers. They have the firepower, and now they have their man. The question lingering in the air is simple: after this disruption, will Wahi be sharp enough from the first whistle to make the difference on the pitch
