Côte d’Ivoire vs South Korea: a show of strength from the Elephants

The Elephants of Côte d’Ivoire dominated South Korea with a resounding 4-0 victory this Saturday, in a friendly match during the March 2026 FIFA window. This convincing performance gives Emerse Faé’s squad a huge boost of confidence.

Côte d’Ivoire left their opponents with no chance. Despite several opportunities, it took until the 35th minute for the South Korean defense to finally break. Highly active up front, Martial Godo showcased his blistering pace before supplying a decisive assist to Evann Guessand, who coolly slotted home the opening goal.

Just before halftime, Simon Adingra doubled the lead, capping off a first half that was thoroughly dominated by the Ivorians.

A one-sided second half

After the break, the momentum didn’t shift. In the 46th minute, Simon Adingra netted his second of the night, making it 2-0 and putting his team firmly in control.

The Elephants kept pressing relentlessly. On the hour mark (62’), the Adingra-Godo connection struck again: from a perfectly delivered corner, Martial Godo rose highest to head in the third goal—capping a remarkable performance on his first start.

With the match seemingly settled, Côte d’Ivoire didn’t let up. Deep into stoppage time (93’), Wilfried Singo sealed the win with a fourth goal, rounding off an impressive collective display.

A squad brimming with confidence

Just months after their elimination in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations quarterfinals against Egypt, the Elephants are showing a reassuring and exciting new face.

This victory confirms the rise of a team growing in cohesion, tactical discipline, and attacking efficiency.

The next test awaits against Scotland, scheduled for March 31.

Nouya M'toama

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Versatile journalist specializing in sports and political news, with extensive experience across radio, print and digital media platforms.