An exciting left winger with an eye for goal, Kanga Akale is an important part of the Elephants' attacking plans. He started just once during World Cup qualifying, but was one of the stars of the 2006 African Cup of Nations, where his ability to beat defenders and whip in teasing crosses was a major factor in Ivory Coast reaching the final. The 25-year-old spent the early stages of his professional career in Switzerland with FC Zurich, but has played his club football in the French top-flight with Auxerre since 2003.