Ivory Coast’s Afcon Hero Barry Retires

Ivory Coast goal goalkeeper Boubacar Barry has announced his retirement from international football, less than six months after inspiring his country to Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) triumph in Equatorial Guinea.

Barry, 35, was the hero of the day as ‘Les Elephants’ pip Ghana to Afcon 2015 trophy via penalties in Bata on 8 February.

The goalkeeper, fondly called Koppa, saved two spot-kicks in the shootouts before converting the winning kick.

Wilfried Bony and Boubacar Barry Celebrates Afcon Title. Image: Reuters.
Wilfried Bony and Boubacar Barry Celebrates Afcon Title. Image: Reuters.

Every good thing has an end. I have decided to put an end to my International career with the Elephants of Ivory Coast. I have always been proud to wear the shirt of Ivory Coast team. Good luck,” Barry said on his Facbook page.

Barry, who appeared in the 2006, 2010 and 2014 World Cup finals, won 86 Cote d’Ivoire caps.

He also featured in the 2012 Afcon finals which Ivory Coast lost on penalties to Zambia.