The number one favourites at the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations take on Togo in their opening fixture, with Sparrow Hawks boosted by the return of captain Emmanuel Adebayor.

For almost a decade now, Ivory Coast have been widely regarded as the strongest national team on African soil, but the Elephants are still searching for their first AFCON title since 1992.

After losing the 2012 final to Zambia on penalties, Sabri Lamouchi’s side are extremely motivated to make things right in South Africa and they are 2.63 (13/8) with Stan James to win the coveted title.

Double victory over very good Senegal side in the AFCON qualifiers hinted that the Elephants are slowly returning to their best, while friendly victories over Austria and Egypt ensured the team arrive at the tournament finals in great spirits.

These are all reasons why Ivory Coast are just 1.33 (1/3) with Ladbrokes to win their opening match against Togo.

Captain Didier Drogba, and without a doubt the biggest star of the tournament, is 1.83 (5/6) with bet365 to score at any time.

Probable starting line-up (4-2-3-1): Barry – Eboue, Bamba, K. Toure, Boka – Zokora, Tiote – Gradel, Y. Toure, Gervinho – Drogba.

Following the shocking attack on Togo team bus during the 2010 Africa Cup of Nations, the national team have spent next couple of years trying to recover from the unfortunate event and they are finally returning to the biggest stage.

The Sparrow Hawks eliminated two very good sides on their road to South Africa, beating Kenya and Gabon, while also showing a lot of potential in friendly games.

Captain Emmanuel Adebayor and keeper Kossi Agassa ultimately decided to appear at the 2013 AFCON after a lot of persuasion, which was a huge boost for boss Didier Six.

With star players Moustapha Salifou, Floyd Ayite, Alaixys Romao and Razak Boukari all in the squad, Togo could give Ivory Coast a tough time in their opening match.

While we cannot really expect the Sparrow Hawks to get something from this match, they look a good bet to score at odds of 2.38 (11/8) offered at Coral.

Probable starting line-up (4-4-2): Kossi – Dare, Mamah, Sadate, Bossou – Komlan, Segbefia, Romao, Doye – Adebayor, Ayite.

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