CAN U17: Ivory Coast eliminates reigning champions Senegal, just like in CAN Seniors 2023

On Friday, April 11, 2025, the young Elephants of Ivory Coast repeated the feat of their seniors by eliminating Senegal, the reigning champions, in the quarter-finals of the U17 CAN. At the municipal stadium of Berrechid, Morocco, the Ivorian youngsters triumphed in a penalty shootout (0-0, 5-3 p.s.o.) after a fiercely contested match.

A tense and balanced encounter

From the first minutes, Ivory Coast showed initiative, putting pressure on the Senegalese defense. Despite several attempts, neither team managed to find the back of the net during regulation time. The match was marked by notable physical intensity, culminating in the expulsion of Obli Kouamé Jean Médéric in the 89th minute for a dangerous tackle.

A decisive penalty shootout

Reduced to ten men, the young Elephants showed resilience, pushing the match to a penalty shootout. The Ivorians were composed, converting all five of their attempts, while Senegal missed one of their strikes. This victory propels Ivory Coast into the semi-finals, where they will face the host country, Morocco.

This was reminiscent of the 2023 CAN where the Senegal vs Ivory Coast match ended in a 1-1 draw. The Lions of Teranga, champions of Africa CAN 2021, were forced into a penalty shootout against the Elephants to decide the next round. Unfortunately, as on this night, it was the Ivorians who prevailed (4-5) and ended the reigning champions' journey.

Like Sadio Mané's squad, the Lion Cubs see their dream of a second consecutive title shattered before reaching the last four.

Lydiane N'Po |

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Sports journalist specializing in African football, covering football news, exclusive stories and digital content for passionate fans of the game.