Cote d’Ivoire leave it late to beat Somalia in Africa Cup of Nations qualifying

Cote d’Ivoire secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Somalia on matchday two of the Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign in Group C.

The Elephants dominated possession, controlling 77% of the match compared with Somalia’s 23%, but struggled to turn their authority into goals. Somalia defended resolutely as Cote d’Ivoire repeatedly searched for a breakthrough.

Nicolas Pepe went close in the 45th minute, while Elye Wahi missed another opportunity 11 minutes into the second half. Despite their control of the game, the Ivorians lacked the necessary precision in front of goal for much of the contest.

The decisive moment finally arrived in the 89th minute, when Yann Gboho scored to settle a tense encounter and secure three valuable points for Cote d’Ivoire.

The result gives manager Herve Renard a perfect start to the Africa Cup of Nations 2027 qualifiers, with his side having collected six points from their opening two matches.