Côte d’Ivoire began their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a 2-0 victory over Ghana in a fiercely contested West African derby on Thursday.
The Elephants struck late in the first half and added a second goal shortly after the restart to secure all three points, leaving Ghana with work to do in their remaining qualifying fixtures.
Ghana created the first notable chance of the encounter in the 20th minute when Ernest Nuamah noticed the Ivorian goalkeeper off his line and attempted an audacious effort from distance, but the shot drifted narrowly wide.
Both sides battled for control in a tense opening period, with chances at a premium until Côte d’Ivoire found the breakthrough just before half-time. Midfielder Malick Yalcouyé scored in the 44th minute to send the home supporters into celebration and hand the Elephants a 1-0 lead at the interval.
Côte d’Ivoire increased their advantage early in the second half after being awarded a penalty in the 54th minute. Franck Kessié stepped up and calmly converted from the spot a minute later to make it 2-0 and put the hosts firmly in control.
Despite trailing by two goals, Ghana continued to push forward in search of a route back into the contest. The Black Stars mounted sustained pressure in the closing stages and came agonisingly close to reducing the deficit in the 86th minute when an effort crashed against the crossbar.
However, Côte d’Ivoire held on comfortably through the remaining minutes to secure a valuable opening victory in the qualifying campaign, while Ghana will now look to respond positively in their next matches as they seek a place at the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
