Ivory Coast FA president threatens to withdraw (28 Feb 2006 17:18 GMT)
The president of the Ivory Coast football association, Jacques Anouma, has threatened to withdraw the national team from the upcoming World Cup if the general situation in his country fails to improve.
The country has been struggling with an armed conflict since 2002. Rebels took control of the north while the south is controlled by the army.
"If it's not any better by the end of May, the 'Elephants' will not be playing the World Cup. We want for our team's success to unite the people of Ivory Coast. But unfortunately there is no sign of improvement. Let's lay down the weapons and and search for peace. What purpose would the World Cup have without peace in our country? Without peace, no glory."
Ivory Coast, finalists at January's African Cup of Nations, will face Argentina in Group C in June.
source : Soccerway