AFCON 2023: Cote d’Ivoire gets a perfect start

Al Nassr midfielder Seko Fofana and Red Star Belgrade forward Jean-Philipe Krasso gave the Elephants of La Cote d’Ivoire a perfect start to the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. The AFCON 2023 hosts did not need much time to open the scoring in front of a packed crowd at the Olympic Stadium in Ebimpe.

Fofana took just four minutes to open the scoring for two-time African champions after beating the on-loan Clermont Foot shot-stopper Ouparine Djoco. The 28-year-old former RC Lens midfielder had the luxury to organize himself and let fly a ferocious shot inside the box.

After netting the opener, the Ivorians looked even hungrier as they worked to open up their inexperienced Guinea-Bissauans. Fofana went close to securing his second on the night only to be denied by an excellent stop by Djoco with the support of the woodwork. While the Ivorians made more incursions, the Wild Dogs grew into the game and neutralizing every threat. The Wild Dogs did not let the early goal dampen their spirits as they held on until the end of the half only a goal down.

The Ivorians, looking to cushion their lead, did not relent as they pushed forward seeking the second goal. A reward for their efforts soon arrived with Jean-Philippe Krasso notching in the second just two minutes under an hour of football at the Olympic Stadium. The Red Star Belgrade striker showed composure to control the ball and slot in while crowded by a sea of green-shirted defenders.

With three points secured, the Elephants will shift their attention to the next match against Nigeria on Thursday. The Super Eagles will take on Equatorial Guinea on Sunday in their first match of AFCON 2023.