Ivory Coast suffered their most significant home defeat, succumbing 4-0 to Equatorial Guinea in the final Group A match of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in a huge tournament clash in Abidjan. The defeat raises concerns about Ivory Coast’s potential early exit from their own tournament.
Equatorial Guinea’s veteran striker, Emilio Nsue, led the charge with a brace, while Pablo Ganet and Jannick Buyla each contributed one goal, securing a resounding victory for Nzalang Nacional and securing their top spot in the group.
Nigeria secured the second automatic qualification slot by defeating Guinea-Bissau 1-0, also accumulating seven points but falling to second place due to goal difference.
With only three points, Ivory Coast’s fate now hangs in the balance, relying on the possibility of ranking among the top four third-placed teams once all group stage matches conclude. Presently in the second position in the ranking, their advancement hinges on favorable outcomes in the remaining five groups.
Facing Equatorial Guinea, Ivory Coast encountered a nightmarish performance as their offensive efforts were consistently thwarted. Two goals were disallowed by VAR for offside, and their finishing lacked sharpness throughout the match.
Reported By AFP.
