Ivory Coast defeated Saudi Arabia in their first Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games match as Max Gradel and Franck Kessié scored to hand the West African side a dreamed start.
Soualiho Ahidara’s men were the first to take advantage in the game as veteran forward Max Gradel materialized their perfect start to the game with a cross which compelled Saudi defender Abdulelah Al-Amri to score an own-goal (39 minutes).
However, the Elephants failed to secured that scoreline going into the dressing room as Saudi Arabia forward scored from a long-range strike as Salem Al-Dawsari beat Ivory Coast goalkeeper Ira Tapé (44 minutes).
Read more : Tokyo 2020 – Ivory Coast vs Saudi Arabia line-ups
Amad Diallo who was impressive during first-half appeared to be discreet and will will be subbed as well as Max Gradel.
However, their exits was preceded by a beautiful goal from AC Milan midfielder Franck Kessié in the 66th minutes as he converted a lovely assist of the Manchester United Golden Boy.
That goal of the 24-year-old was the match winner for Ivory Coast who were left 10-man after second half substitute Aboubacar Doumbia was shown a red card in the additional time.
In addition, Ivory Coast will take on Brazil on Sunday, July 25 at 8:30 am for their second game.
Franck Kessie’s goal video below :