AFCON 2025: Ivory Coast's Closing Minutes Thrilling Goals Eliminate Gabon, Top Group To Reach Knockouts

 

Ivory Coast have qualified for the knockouts, finishing in the top spot of Group F after defeating Gabon in a comeback by 3-2. 

The Ivorian undid two-goal deficits from the first half to finish atop the group on equal points with Cameroon. Ivory Coast lived up to the antecedent from the last edition, where they defeated Nigeria in a comeback, seizing the closing minutes to pull off the intrigues. 

Gabon scored two goals within ten minutes in the first half through Guelor Kanga and Denis Bouanga before the Ivorians struck back in the closing minutes of the first half through Jean Philippe Krasso. 

With six minutes left to play in the second half, Evann Guessand headed home Christian Operi's corner. They took the lead by scoring the winning goal when Operi's cross delivered the ball to Bazoumana Toure, who blasted the ball into the net in the 90th+1 minute. 

Bazoumana scored his first international goal for the Ivory Coast on his second international appearance. The Gabonese side was eliminated without a point, their first time since 1995. 

Overview 

It was an intriguing second half and a disappointing defeat for Gabon, sealing their elimination from the competition. The defense was fatigued, and the Ivorians took advantage of that for a comeback. Amad remained a significant figure for the Ivorians. Christian Operi's delivery of the assist that led to the winning goal was carefully taken. The closing minutes were costly for the Gabonese as they searched for an equaliser, leaving the defense vulnerable for Amad to penetrate. Luckily, the VAR ruled out Yan Domande's goal.

Ivory Coast manager changed the outlook of the game, making changes that bolstered the attacking frontline. His technicalities paid off with two goals in the closing minutes, amongst which was Evann, and Amad, who was involved in the winning goal.