Ivory Coast Concludes AFCON Qualifiers with Convincing Win Over Rwanda
Already qualified for the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, Ivory Coast hosted Rwanda this Saturday for the final matchday of the qualifiers and delivered a dominant performance. The Elephants won 3-0, demonstrating their quality and depth as they wrapped up the campaign in style.
The scoring began early, with Nicolas Pépé opening the account in the 7th minute. The Lille star, who has been in exceptional form in Ligue 1 this season, showcased his pace and composure to give the Elephants a quick lead and set the tone for the rest of the match. Pépé’s early goal energized the team and allowed Ivory Coast to dictate the tempo on their home turf.
After controlling possession for much of the first half, the Elephants extended their lead in the 67th minute through Eric Bailly, the Manchester United defender. Known for his defensive prowess, Bailly demonstrated versatility by joining the attack and finishing clinically, highlighting Ivory Coast’s ability to score from set pieces and defensive transitions.
Just five minutes later, Maxwel Cornet of Lyon sealed the victory with a precise strike in the 72nd minute, ensuring a comfortable margin for the Elephants. Cornet’s goal capped a strong team display and underlined the attacking depth Ivory Coast possesses, combining experienced internationals with in-form European-based players.
Throughout the match, Ivory Coast controlled the game with confidence, showing a fluid attacking style while maintaining defensive stability. Rwanda struggled to create opportunities, largely confined to long balls and sporadic counters. The Elephants’ disciplined approach ensured that they remained unthreatened, even as the game progressed into the second half.
The win allows Ivory Coast to finish the qualifying campaign on a high note, reinforcing their status as one of Africa’s strongest sides ahead of the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt, scheduled for June 21 to July 19. The team now turns its focus to preparations for the finals, with a friendly match against Liberia scheduled for Tuesday, providing an opportunity to test tactics and integrate squad members before the tournament begins.
Coach Ibrahima Kamara praised the team’s performance, highlighting the blend of youth and experience on display. “Our players showed great focus and maturity. Scoring three goals without conceding reflects the preparation and discipline of the squad. We want to carry this momentum into the finals in Egypt,” he said.
With the likes of Pépé, Bailly, and Cornet in form, Ivory Coast enters the tournament as a formidable contender. The team has the attacking flair, defensive solidity, and tactical flexibility to compete against the continent’s best. Fans will be eager to see how this talented squad performs on the bigger stage, where every match counts toward continental glory.
As the qualifiers conclude, the Elephants can celebrate a perfect combination of results and performances, confident in their readiness for Egypt. Ivory Coast’s final match against Rwanda was not only a statement of dominance but also a reminder of their potential to challenge for the AFCON title this summer.
