Ivory Coast Revive Semi-Final Hopes with Late Victory Over Hosts Namibia
Côte d’Ivoire kept their 2014 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign alive with a crucial 3-1 win over host nation Namibia on Tuesday, reigniting their hopes of reaching the semi-finals.
Facing elimination after a disappointing opening loss to Nigeria, the Elephants came into the second round Group A clash needing nothing less than a victory. They responded with intensity and attacking ambition from the first whistle at the Sam Nujoma Stadium in Windhoek.
Their early pressure paid off in the 13th minute when Estelle Nahi José broke through Namibia’s defensive line to open the scoring. But the home side, spurred on by a lively crowd, were quick to respond. Star forward Zenatha Coleman equalised shortly after, capitalising on a lapse in the Ivorian defence. The teams went into the break locked at 1-1.
The second half remained tightly contested, with both sides creating chances but failing to convert. Just as the match appeared headed for a draw, Côte d’Ivoire found a late surge of inspiration. Ines Tia became the hero of the night, striking twice in the final 10 minutes to secure all three points for Clémentine Touré’s side.
The result leaves the group delicately poised heading into the final round of matches. Nigeria, having already booked their place in the semi-finals following a dominant 6-0 win over Zambia, top the group with six points. Côte d’Ivoire move into second place with three points, level with Namibia but ahead on head-to-head results. Zambia, with two heavy defeats, are out of contention.
Group A Results:
Nigeria 6–0 Zambia
Côte d’Ivoire 3–1 Namibia
Group A Standings:
Nigeria – 6 points
Côte d’Ivoire – 3 points
Namibia – 3 points
Zambia – 0 points
Côte d’Ivoire will now face group leaders Nigeria in a high-stakes clash, where a draw or win could potentially see them through to the last four, depending on other results. Namibia, meanwhile, will hope to recover and edge past Zambia to keep their tournament dreams alive.
