Newcastle United have been handed a boost ahead of the new season with the news that Demba Ba and Papiss Cisse’s Senegal have been drawn against Cheick Tiote’s Ivory Coast in the final round of qualifying for the 2013 African Cup of Nations.
With the African Cup of Nations taking place in consecutive seasons so that it can switch from even years to odd years, Newcastle United looked set to lose the core of their squad to the tournament in South Africa early next year.
Alan Pardew’s Senegalese strikeforce of Demba Ba and Papiss Cisse, in addition to defensive midfielder Cheick Tiote were all likely to be involved, but that can no longer happen as they have been drawn against each other.
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In a draw made on Thursday evening, the West African giants were paired together. The two legs in September and October will be great games to watch but who do you want to win?
This is the question Demba Ba posted on Twitter as he Tweeted: “ivory coast for the anc! One of these team gonna stay home next january! Who do u want to win? Papiss and demba or cheick??”
This is a very tough question, but on the proviso that Newcastle keep hold of Ba, you’d prefer Cheick Tiote and Ivory Coast to qualify as the Magpies would find it so difficult to replace the goals of the two Dembas and although it’s hard to say, Mr T would be missed a little less.
Sorry Teranga Lions, but I’ll be supporting the Elephants in a couple of months’ time!
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