Ivory Coast has done it! Despite a rocky start to the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations with two underwhelming draws against Guinea and Mali, the Elephants pulled through when it mattered most—securing a 1-0 win over Cameroon to clinch their place in the quarter-finals.
The hero of the match? Max-Alain Gradel, who delivered a thunderous strike in the 36th minute after dispossessing Cameroon’s Guihoata. His 20-meter rocket left goalkeeper Fabrice Ondoa rooted, giving Côte d’Ivoire a crucial lead they would not relinquish.
In the second half, Cameroon pushed hard, but the Elephants held their ground with gritty defending and saw out the result. It’s a bitter disappointment for the Indomitable Lions, who return home after failing to get out of the group—a harsh outcome after missing the last two editions.
As for Ivory Coast, often burdened by the weight of expectations in past tournaments, they now progress as a team with nothing to lose and everything to prove. Sometimes, it’s when you’re least expected that you go the furthest.
Meanwhile, the other Group D match between Mali and Guinea ended 1-1, meaning both teams finished tied in every statistical category—including goals and points. Per CAF regulations, a drawing of lots will take place Thursday morning to determine who joins the Elephants in the quarter-finals.
Group D Standings (after all matches):
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Ivory Coast: ✅ Qualified
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Guinea: ➖
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Mali: ➖
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Cameroon: ❌ Eliminated
A dramatic ending to the group of death—and it’s not over yet
