Ivory Coast edge Gambia 2–1 after Yalcouyé and Wahi goals

Ivory Coast defeated Gambia 2–1 in Bouaké on Thursday, November 12, with two first-half goals proving enough to secure another Africa Cup of Nations qualifying victory.

Malick Yalcouyé put the hosts ahead in the 17th minute. Elye Wahi doubled the lead seven minutes later after Yan Diomandé won possession and supplied the assist, according to Real Madrid’s international report.

Musa Barrow brought Gambia back into the match before the interval, reducing the margin to one goal. Ivory Coast nevertheless held that advantage through the second half.

The result kept the Ivorians’ winning qualifying run intact. Their early scoring proved decisive, but Gambia’s response ensured the match remained close rather than becoming a comfortable finish.

The teams are scheduled to meet again in Gambia on November 17. That return fixture offers the visitors an immediate opportunity to respond to the narrow defeat.

Source: Real Madrid international report.

Featured image: Archive image: Even though Cote d’Ivoire beat Tunisia on January 26, the Carthage Eagles have one more chance to reach the next round at CAN. Photo: Magharebia / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0. This image is not from the reported match or announcement. Resized for display.