Ipswich Town defender Cédric Kipré has admitted he was left disappointed after being omitted from Ivory Coast’s squad for AFCON 2025. Despite recently breaking into the senior international set-up.
The centre-back, who made his Ivory Coast debut earlier this year. He was hoping to feature at the tournament but ultimately missed out. The reigning African champions finalised a highly competitive squad.
Speaking openly after the squad announcement, Kipré did not hide his emotions.
“I was a bit sad, to be honest,” he admitted. Reflecting on the disappointment of missing out on Africa’s biggest international tournament.
However, the Ipswich Town defender was quick to strike a balanced tone. Acknowledging the depth of quality available to Ivory Coast. Fine margins are involved in selection decisions.
Ivory Coast head into AFCON as defending champions, with the squad boasting a blend of experienced internationals and emerging talent. Competition for places, particularly in defence, was fierce.
Rather than dwelling on the setback, Kipré has turned his attention firmly back to club football.
The defender has been a regular presence for Ipswich this season. He sees the AFCON snub as motivation rather than a setback.
“I just have to keep working,” he said, underlining his determination to remain consistent and push for future international opportunities.
For Ipswich Town, Kipré’s availability during the AFCON period could prove valuable, with the club retaining an important defensive option while several teams across English football lose players to the tournament.
Despite missing AFCON 2025, Kipré’s long-term international ambitions remain intact.
With World Cup qualification on the horizon, the defender believes strong performances at club level can still put him firmly back in contention for Ivory Coast.
Having already earned his first senior cap, the pathway is clear. The challenge now is maintaining form, fitness and visibility in a competitive international picture.
For Cédric Kipré, the AFCON omission is undoubtedly frustrating. But it is also a reminder of the standards required to compete at the very top of African football.
As Ipswich Town continue their campaign, Kipré will be determined to ensure this disappointment becomes a turning point rather than a stumbling block.
AFCON 2025 may go on without him. His international story, however, is far from finished.
