Ivorian goalkeeper Boubacar Copa Barry has taken the decision to retire from the Cote D’Ivoire national team following a his most successful stint with the Elephants following their Nations Cup victory.

Cote D’Ivoire emerged victorious at the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) following a great run in the tournament, ending in a tense 9-8 penalty shootout victory over the Black Stars of Ghana.

Barry was the hero of the final last month in Equatorial Guinea, saving two of the penalties before stepping up himself to convert the winning strike that finally earned the golden generation of Ivorian stars the AFCON title.

The shot-stopper, who plays for Lokeren in Belgium, has decided to hang up his goalkeeping gloves following the stunning victory, and has announced his retirement from his duties with the Elephants.

“All good things must come to an end,” the keep said in a conversation with Radio France International.

“I was extremely proud to wear the jersey of my country and it wasn’t just an obligation, it was an honour.

“Now is time to pass the flame to the younger players and there is a great new generation coming through so we have to let them develop,” he said.

“I think this is the best decision for me, I’ve been with the national team for 15 years,” he added.

During his 15 years representing his country, Barry won 85 caps in a career that included three FIFA World Cup tournaments. He goes out at the very top of his game with the national team, having finally won the elusive AFCON title.