Eric Bailly set for early return to United after Ivory Coast Afcon exit

[PHOTO: COURTESY]

Manchester United star Eric Bailly will be returning from the Africa Cup of Nations early after his Ivory Coast side were eliminated from the tournament.

Ivory Coast drew their first two games of the tournament in Gabon – and lost 1-0 to Morocco thanks to Rachid Alioui.

It was a poor performance from the Ivory Coast – who along with Manchester United’s Bailly in the heart of the defence featured Crystal Palace’s Wilfried Zaha and Stoke’s Wilfried Bony.

In another match, DR Congo defeated Togo 3-1 in Port-Gentil to top Group C.

Making the last eight was particularly sweet for Morocco coach Herve Renard, who guided Ivory Coast to the title two years ago.