Manchester City centre-back Kolo Toure is hoping that the Ivory Coast team can give the whole nation a boost by winning the African Cup of Nations.
The Ivory Coast has endured a number of problems in recent times, including a near civil war break-out in 2011.
However, Toure is keen to put a smile back on the faces of his nation's people.
"It's going to be a very important tournament for our country after the hard time our country has had a few months ago," Toure told Sky Sports News.
"It's going to be a really, really tough competition, playing against some brilliant teams and we just need to do our bit and then see if we can come back with the trophy."
The Ivory Coast have been made favourites to win the competition.
