U17 AFCON: Ivory Coast's resounding debut against Central African Republic (6-1)

This Tuesday, April 2, the municipal stadium of Berrechid vibrated with the Ivorian colors. In a one-sided match, Ivory Coast crushed Central African Republic (6-1) in their opening game of the 2025 U17 AFCON. The Young Elephants sent a strong message to their future opponents in the competition.

Ivory Coast kicked off their 2025 U17 Africa Cup of Nations campaign in spectacular fashion. Against a determined but overwhelmed opponent, Central African Republic, the Ivorians delivered an impressive performance. From the kickoff, Ivory Coast imposed their pace, controlling nearly 60% of possession in the first 20 minutes.

The first goal didn't take long. In the 4th minute, Alynho Haïdara, future man of the match, opened the scoring with a well-placed shot at the near post from a pull-back cross by Cédric Gobehi. Nine minutes later, the young Mainz 05 forward doubled the lead with a curled shot into the bottom corner, inspired by a perfect setup from Moïse Diarrassouba (13th).

Central African Republic, already struggling, was completely undone in the 21st minute when Mobio Koidio converted a direct free kick into an unstoppable shot (3-0). Central African goalkeeper Guidat-Henzo then worsened the situation by being sent off for handling the ball outside his area, giving Haïdara the chance to complete his hat-trick from the penalty spot (41st).

Just one ray of hope for the Wild Beasts. Anan Otto capitalized on a defensive scramble to reduce the deficit just before halftime (4-1, 45+4'). The second half confirmed Ivorian dominance. In the 55th minute, Haïdara converted another penalty to secure a rare four-goal haul in the U17 AFCON group stage.

Despite some missed chances by Gobehi, including a squandered one-on-one (67th), the Young Elephants finished in style in the 88th minute. Yannis Touali, set up by Gobehi, coolly slotted past substitute goalkeeper Binguimale to seal the 6-1 scoreline.

This emphatic 6-1 victory is a strong signal for the rest of the tournament. Ivory Coast not only demonstrated technical and tactical superiority but also their ability to manage a high-level match. If the Young Elephants can maintain this form, they will emerge as one of the tournament's top contenders.

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.