After a narrow 1-0 loss to Uganda in their opening friendly, the Ivory Coast Elephants bounced back emphatically against Zambia’s Chipolopolos, securing a 4-1 victory on Wednesday in Abu Dhabi. The match showcased the Ivorian team’s attacking prowess and offered a confidence boost ahead of the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations.
Zambia initially took the lead in the 13th minute through Fashion Sakala’s penalty, putting Ivory Coast on the back foot. However, Ibrahim Kamara’s side quickly regained composure and began asserting control over the game. Jonathan Kodjia equalized in the 30th minute, and Jean Michael Seri followed with a second goal just before halftime in the 42nd minute, giving the Elephants a comfortable lead going into the break.
After the interval, the Ivorian squad maintained its attacking momentum. Maxwell Cornet scored the third goal in the 57th minute, putting the team firmly in command, and Wilfried Bony capped off the scoring with a late strike in the 84th minute, completing a dominant performance. The match highlighted Ivory Coast’s fluid attacking combinations, quick transitions, and finishing ability, leaving little doubt about their offensive strength ahead of the tournament.
This victory marked a successful conclusion to Ivory Coast’s pre-AFCON training camp, providing the players with morale and momentum. Their opening 2019 Africa Cup of Nations match is scheduled against South Africa on Monday, June 24th at 2:30 PM GMT. The South African team, originally set to play Angola on the same evening, had that friendly match canceled, giving the Elephants additional time to prepare tactically for their group-stage debut.
With key players firing on all cylinders and confidence restored following the friendly win, Ivory Coast will look to carry this form into Egypt. The team’s strong attacking display against Zambia signals their readiness to challenge in Group D, where they face South Africa, Morocco, and Namibia. Ibrahim Kamara will be relying on his offensive talents, such as Kodjia, Seri, Cornet, and Bony, to make an immediate impact and secure vital points in the group stage.
