Ivorians block hosts' path to glory

After 31 games, and 73 goals, the African Cup of Nations will conclude this evening as the hosts Egypt tackle Ivory Coast in front of a sell-out crowd in Cairo.

Drogba influence
Egypt have reigned supreme in their continent on four occasions, winning the first two championships in 1957 and 1959, a third in 1986 and the 1998 edition in Burkina Faso. The Ivorians have tasted success just once, in 1992, but in Didier Drogba boast the player of the tournament so far. The Chelsea FC forward has been vital to his team's run to the final, notably when scoring the only goal in their semi-final defeat of Nigeria and the decisive kick in the penalty shoot-out against Cameroon in the previous round.

'Happiness'
"Quite simply, I'd be really proud to win this cup as it means a great deal," Drogba said. "It's enormous. It's a degree of recognition that comes just below that of the [FIFA] World Cup, but today, simply being in the final, is just happiness." The former Olympique de Marseille forward also scored in Ivory Coast's Group A wins against Morocco and Libya, but was rested as the Elephants lost a group match 3-1 to Egypt.

Michel confident
Ivory Coast's French coach Henri Michel was delighted his young team had gained valuable experience in Egypt ahead of their first-ever World Cup finals appearance this summer. He said: "We've had a good run. Now there's the cherry on the cake - and let's hope we can place it correctly. We've shown character and discipline and on top of that, we've got the kind of hunger and enthusiasm to move mountains."

Mido to play?
Drogba and Michel had different views on Egypt's decision to spend another London-based forward, Mido, for six months following his furious reaction to being substituted in the 2-1 semi-final victory against Senegal. "I think Mido will play. I think they are ready to fight, to do everything to win this game because they are playing at home," said Drogba. Michel added: "We know Mido, he can be a bit conflictual sometimes but that's their problem."