Senegal’s chances of winning the TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations again were dashed on Friday night as they lost to Cote d’Ivoire in a fierce quarterfinal match.

The two West African countries engaged in a fiercely tactical yet entertaining combat, and Cote d’Ivoire finally prevailed over the reigning champions, who painfully lost their crown.

As anticipated, both teams played cautiously going into the game, choosing to play their typical fast-paced interchange passing style in a more subdued manner.

Star players Barhama Ndiaye and Alynho Haidara of Cote d’Ivoire kept quiet for the majority of the match as they matched each other pound for pound.

Both teams were searching for the elusive goal as the game loosened up after the half.

In the 87th minute, Vaboue Doumbia had a fantastic opportunity as his attempted low cross nearly reached the inside of the net with the keeper well-beaten.

Senegal had a chance to win it right before the end when Ibrahima Sow’s close-range attempt was disallowed.

It was decided by a lottery of penalties because the scores were tied at 0-0. Cote d’Ivoire won 5-3 on penalties.