Title: Ivory Coast dominates Guinea-Bissau in the opening match of CAN 2024
Introduction :
The 2024 African Cup of Nations (CAN) kicked off with the opening match between Ivory Coast and Guinea-Bissau. In a packed stadium and an electric atmosphere, the Elephants won without difficulty with a score of 2-0. This victory allows them to start the competition in the best possible way, while the Djurtus of Guinea-Bissau continue their quest for a first victory in CAN.
A match under the eyes of the elite of African football:
Under the eyes of notable figures from African and world football such as CAF President Patrice Motsepe and FIFA President Gianni Infantino, the two teams put on a quality spectacle. Ivorian supporters, driven by the hope of a third continental title at home, were able to provide their unconditional support to their team.
Fofana lights the first fuse:
In the fourth minute of play, Séko Fofana, midfielder from Ivory Coast, opened the scoring by firing a curling shot with his right foot at the entrance to the Guinea-Bissau penalty area. This early opening score gave the Elephants a comfortable lead.
Game control without real threat:
Despite their advantage in the score, the Ivorians slowed down the pace of the game somewhat against the relatively harmless Djurtus. Although they maintained control of the ball, the Elephants failed to add to the scoreline before the break, with the exception of a Fofana shot being blocked by the crossbar.
A controlled second half:
Returning from the locker room, the Ivorians found the net again in the 57th minute thanks to Jean-Philippe Krasso. The latter resisted the pressure from the Guinea-Bissau defenders to score with a left-footed pivot shot from a cross from Jonathan Bamba.
Despite a strike from the Bissau-Guinean left side pushed back by the Ivorian goalkeeper, the Elephants maintained their lead until the end of the match. Solid and well organized, they did not tremble against Guinea-Bissau.
Conclusion :
Ivory Coast’s convincing victory in the opening match of CAN 2024 is a good start for the host team. However, it is important to point out that today’s opponent was considered the weakest in Group A. The real test for the Ivorians will come in their next match against Nigeria, a superior opponent.