Gervinho, darling of Ivory Coast, is an icon of Ivorian football. A native of Anyama, he participated in five African Nations Cups, where he left an indelible mark. Two highlights of his career have stood out: a sad memory in 2012 when he missed a decisive shot on goal in the final against Zambia, and a happy victory in 2015 when he finally won the CAN with the Ivorian team.
Met at Sol Béni, the ASEC training ground in Abidjan, his training club, Gervinho, aged 36, remembers these intense moments of competition. With his whimsical and dynamic personality, he makes us relive these moments which shaped his career and his journey in football.
During the CAN final in 2012, Gervinho found himself facing the test of penalties. The pressure is immense, and the whole country is holding its breath. Unfortunately, fate decides otherwise, and the Ivorian player’s shot does not find the net. It’s a difficult moment to accept for Gervinho, who feels responsible for his team’s defeat. But despite this disappointment, he keeps his head high and continues to fight to achieve his goals.
Three years later, luck finally smiled on Gervinho during CAN 2015. The Ivorian team managed to reach the final, and this time, Gervinho was determined not to let victory slip away. A penalty shootout looms on the horizon, but the player prefers not to watch. Too stressed, he prefers to stay on his little chair, focused on his objective. And when victory is finally achieved, it is a mixture of relief, happiness and emotion that invades Gervinho.
It is these moments of glory and disappointment, these moments of joy and sadness that make football an unwavering passion for Gervinho. He embodies the passion for the game, the commitment and perseverance to reach the heights. His career perfectly illustrates the ups and downs of sport, but above all the determination and strength of character necessary to succeed.
Gervinho, darling of Ivory Coast, remains an emblematic figure of Ivorian football. His performances on the field, his endearing personality and his love of the game make him a true hero for Ivorian youth. He was able to inspire generations of footballers and contributed to writing the glorious pages of the history of Ivorian football.
In conclusion, Gervinho remains a symbol of Ivorian football. His exploits and his emotions on the field marked the entire country. But beyond sporting results, it is his passion and dedication that make him a true icon of Ivorian football. His journey is a true life lesson, reminding us of the importance of persevering in your dreams and never giving up, whatever the difficulties encountered along the way.