Toure: Winning with your country is exceptional

Cote d’Ivoire captain, Yaya Toure, has described as “exceptional” the triumph of the Elephants at the Orange Africa Cup of Nations in Equatorial Guinea.

The victory over Ghana ended a 23-year wait for the title which included two final heartbreaks in 2006 and 2012.

Now, the attacking midfielder who has won titles with Manchester City, Barcelona, and Olympiakos, was overjoyed after the win with his country.

“Sometimes when you win with your club, it’s magical, but winning with your country is something exceptional,” he told L’Equipe.

“We worked so hard to win and we will celebrate with our families. I have waited so long for this moment and to lift a trophy as captain, it’s huge.

“We must congratulate coach Herve Renard, who has done a great job. We have often been aggressively criticised. I’ve lost twice in the final, so to be here now is fantastic. I’m so happy.”

Goalkeeper Boubacar Barry, who converted the winning penalty kick, was as elated as his captain after the dramatic 9-8 win against the Black Stars.

“I have been criticised, but I was able to progress,” Barry said.

“I’m not big in talent nor in size, but I wanted to develop and I worked for the team. My mother has suffered. Thanks to her, thank you to all Ivorians. Football allowed me to travel and there is not always room for everyone.

“But there is always room for work and God has rewarded me.”