Salomon Kalou calls on players to seize their AFCON moment

Now retired, the 2015 AFCON winner says lifting the trophy with the Elephants remains the pinnacle of his football journey.

With Morocco set to host 24 nations next month as the Ivorians defend their crown, the former Chelsea forward says he always wore his national colours with immense pride and honour.

"Participating in an AFCON is always a special feeling because you get to represent your country on a big stage. I can still remember the excitement of Didier Drogba and myself when we came back to Africa to play in the AFCON."

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Kalou adds that the competition has made great strides over the years.

On his native country, Kalou believes the only difference between talent in Ivory Coast and Europe is the set-up.

"There is always talent in Cote d'Ivoire because football to us is like a religion. Now we need to organise and manage that talent better, and give those kids the opportunity to develop their skills."

What also impresses Kalou about the AFCON is the fact that the gap is closing between the so-called powerhouses and the minnows.