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By Martin Graham | 30th Jan 2024
Yamoussoukro bore witness to a captivating showdown as Ivory Coast, the hosts, displayed exceptional resilience to eliminate Senegal, the reigning champions, in a tense penalty shootout, securing a coveted place in the quarter-finals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. The gripping narrative unfolded against the backdrop of a 1-1 draw after extra time, intensifying the drama on the pitch.
A standout figure in this high-stakes encounter was Franck Kessie, who emerged as the central protagonist, orchestrating a captivating turn of events with his precise spot-kick just four minutes before the conclusion of regular play. This strategic move proved to be a masterstroke, propelling the Elephants to an extraordinary victory and marking a compelling redemption from their earlier setbacks in the group stage, where they suffered two defeats.
Senegal’s dream start and Ivory Coast’s resilience
The drama kicked off with Senegal’s dream start, courtesy of Habib Diallo’s fourth-minute goal from a Sadio Mane cross. However, Ivory Coast, previously marred by a lackluster group stage with two defeats, showcased resilience and determination. Kessie’s late equalizer from the penalty spot in the dying minutes of normal time set the stage for an extraordinary comeback, turning their tournament fate around.
Senegal’s untimely exit and Cup of Nations champions’ curse
Senegal’s premature exit adds a bitter twist to the tournament, extending a perplexing streak where no reigning champion has successfully progressed beyond the initial knockout round since Egypt’s triumphant third consecutive title in 2010. This unforeseen turn of events underscores the unpredictable nature that defines the Africa Cup of Nations.
The journey of Ivory Coast through the labyrinthine twists of the group phase is noteworthy. Despite an early setback marked by Diallo’s clinical strike for Saudi Pro League club Al Shabab, the Elephants gradually metamorphosed, taking control of possession and fervently seeking an equalizer.
Adding a layer of tension to the charged atmosphere, Sadio Mane, the catalyst of Senegal’s early dominance, narrowly escaped punishment with a caution after a rash challenge. The incident, occurring just five minutes post Diallo’s goal, resulted in the temporary sidelining of Nottingham Forest midfielder Ibrahim Sangare, who, after receiving treatment, valiantly returned to the fray.
The Elephants, initially grappling with the frenetic pace, orchestrated a compelling shift, dominating first-half possession and mounting relentless pressure for an equalizing goal. Seko Fofana and Oumar Diakite, emblematic of Ivory Coast’s newfound vigor, animated the pitch with their lively contributions, underscoring the team’s ability to adapt and thrive amid adversity.
Quarter-final anticipation and potential opponents
As Ivory Coast looks ahead, the anticipation for their quarter-final clash on Saturday at 17:00 GMT builds. The formidable encounter awaits them against either Mali or Burkina Faso, with the latter two nations set to determine the next obstacle on Ivory Coast’s path to potential glory in a last-16 clash in Korhogo on Tuesday at the same time.
Martin Graham is an MFF sports writer
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