U17 AFCON: Ivory Coast knocks out Senegal to reach semifinals!

Ivory Coast pulled off a stunning upset by eliminating defending champions Senegal in the quarterfinals of the 2025 U17 AFCON on Friday, April 11, in Berrechid, Morocco.

After a fierce and hard-fought match, the Ivorians secured their spot in the semifinals following a thrilling penalty shootout victory (0-0, 5-3 on penalties), despite being down to ten men at the end of the game.

Facing a cautious Senegalese side, the young Elephants took the first offensive initiatives. Souhalio Bamba looked dangerous as early as the 4th minute, but Alpha Mbengue intervened just in time.

Soon after, Bi Junior Zahi threatened the Senegalese goalkeeper from a corner, while Alynho Haïdara, who had been formidable since the start of the tournament, was well contained by Cheikh Dieng.

Down to ten, Ivory Coast heroically holds on

In the second half, the Senegalese tried to step up the pace, yet they never truly broke through the solid Ivorian defense.

Reduced to ten men following the expulsion of Obli Kouamé (89th minute), Ivory Coast heroically withstood the final attacks from their opponents. Ultimately, it was in the penalty shootout that the Ivorians triumphed with composure.

The sensation of the U17 AFCON, the young and talented Ivorian squad will now face Morocco in the semifinals, dreaming of another remarkable achievement.

Amine Jomni |

Editorfr

African football writer and sports journalist covering football news, stories and insights while sharing his expertise with fans across the continent.