Ivory Coast moved to the top of Group C in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a 2-1 victory over The Gambia, a result which also strengthened Ghana’s hopes of reaching the tournament.
The Elephants made it three wins from three on Thursday night after scoring twice in the first half at the Stade de la Paix in Bouake. They then withstood a second-half response from The Gambia to claim all three points.
Ivory Coast now have nine points and remain firmly in control of the group. The Gambia are three points behind the leaders after missing the chance to reduce the gap.
The result was also welcomed by Ghana, who secured their first points of the campaign earlier on Thursday with a 2-0 victory over Somalia. The Black Stars’ win improved their position in the group and left them well placed to benefit from the next round of fixtures.
Ivory Coast took the lead after 17 minutes when Malick Yalcouye completed a move created by Nicolas Pepe. The midfielder’s finish gave the hosts an early advantage and set the tone for a dominant opening.
The home side doubled their lead seven minutes later. Elye Wahi received a pass from Yan Diomande before finding the net, putting Ivory Coast in a commanding position before the half-hour mark.
The Gambia responded in the 38th minute as Musa Barrow pulled a goal back. His finish gave the visitors renewed belief and ensured Ivory Coast were made to work for the victory.
However, The Gambia could not find an equaliser after the break. Ivory Coast protected their advantage for the remainder of the match to preserve their perfect record and claim another important result in the qualifying campaign.
The defeat leaves The Gambia unable to close the gap on the group leaders, although they will have an immediate opportunity to respond when the sides meet again next week.
Attention now turns to Matchday 4. Ivory Coast will face The Gambia again, while Ghana prepare to play Somalia.
A fourth successive win would strengthen Ivory Coast’s position at the summit of Group C. Ghana would also improve their standing in the qualification race if they follow their victory over Somalia with another three points.
The upcoming fixtures could therefore prove important in shaping the group, with Ivory Coast aiming to maintain their flawless start and Ghana seeking to build on their first win.