Following Mali’s defeat in the AFCON 2023 quarter-final match against Ivory Coast, coach Sekou Chelle disclosed experiencing dizziness and a spike in blood pressure.
A viral video depicted water being poured over Chelle’s head, prompting clarification from the coach regarding the circumstances.
Mali had held control of the game with a numerical advantage and secured a lead through Nene Dorgeles’ goal in the second half.
However, Ivory Coast mounted a comeback, equalising in the 90th minute with Simon Adingra’s goal and sealing their victory with Diakite’s header in extra time.
Chelle, visibly distressed at the match’s conclusion, attributed his distress to his health issues, shedding light on his condition post-match.
“After the Elephants’ second goal, I started to feel dizzy, my blood pressure was rising,” he said. “Thankfully, my compatriot poured enough water on my head to stabilise my blood pressure.”
Despite their disappointment at falling short of winning the tournament, Malians remain proud of their team’s accomplishments, including topping their group and overcoming Burkina Faso in the round of 16.
Looking ahead, coach Chelle will undoubtedly strive to build upon this performance when the AFCON returns to Morocco next year.