Côte d'Ivoire's Elephants, who are playing Friday in their second Africa Cup of Nations final, have all the intention of winning their second trophy since their victory in Senegal '92.

Defeating Nigeria (1-0) in the semi-finals last Tuesday, Henri Michel's charges have moved closer to their dream of lifting the Africa championship once again.

Despite their defeat at the hands of Egypt (1-3) in their last group stage match and despite their qualification for the quarter finals and given their previous performances in Group matches, analysts could not imagine Côte d'Ivoire reaching this stage.

However, in the light of their course, the Elephants lost only once (1-3) to their opponents in the final, Egypt, and had two victories over Morocco (1-0) and Libya (2-1).

They then dominated Cameroon in the quarter finals (12-11) after a 1-1 draw before beating the Nigerians.

These performances have given Michel's boys confidence which they intend to make good use of Friday afternoon at Cairo Stadium when they meet the hosts Egypt.

"We are said to be Africa's best team. So at this stage of the competition we have to win the trophy in order to confirm all the good things people are saying about us. For a big team without trophies is nothing," goalkeeper Jean-Jacques Tizie said.

"With our confidence and enthusiasm, we can lift a mountain", the French technician added.

The two teams met in the group joint 2006 World Cup and CAN qualification matches. Côte d'Ivoire won both matches (2-1) and (2-0) before their recent loss (0-1) to Egypt.

Owing to what is at stake, things will be more difficult for both teams because Egyptians are 90 minutes away from a record victory in the CAN, while the Ivorians are chasing after their second trophy in history.

Both teams are not about to let this chance easily slip away.