Host nation Ivory Coast eliminated defending champions Senegal from the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations with a nail-biting 5-4 victory on penalties.
The Elephants, considered underdogs coming into the match after qualifying as one of the best third-placed teams following the 4-0 thrashing at the hands of Equatorial Guinea, put up a brave fight against a star-studded Teranga Lions side, who were confident of defending their title after winning all three group games this year.
Senegal got off to a quick start, with Habib Diallo scoring in the 4th minute from a Sadio Mane cross. However, the Elephants refused to back down, led by captain Serge Aurier. They fought fiercely and were awarded a penalty late in the second half, which substitute Franck Kessie converted to draw them level and send the game into extra time.
The extra time period was intense, with neither team able to find a decisive goal. This led to a penalty shootout, where Ivory Coast emerged victorious, sparking wild celebrations among their passionate home fans in Yamoussoukro.
This result marks a significant turning point in the tournament, as the defending champions are now out of the competition. The unexpected victory for Ivory Coast has blown the tournament wide open, and they will now face either Mali or Burkina Faso in the quarter-finals. The Elephants’ spirited performance has ignited hope among their fans, and they will look to continue their unlikely run in the competition.