Ivory Coast beat The Gambia to maintain perfect start in AFCON 2027 qualifiers

Ivory Coast maintained their perfect start to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers with a 2-1 victory over The Gambia on Thursday night.

The Elephants scored twice in the first half at the Stade de la Paix in Bouaké before holding on to secure their third consecutive win in Group C.

Yalcouye and Wahi put Ivory Coast in control

Malick Yalcouye opened the scoring for the hosts in the 17th minute, with Nicolas Pepe providing the assist.

Elye Wahi doubled Ivory Coast’s advantage seven minutes later after being set up by Yan Diomande.

The Gambia responded in the 38th minute through Musa Barrow, reducing the deficit before half-time.

However, the visitors could not find another goal as Ivory Coast held on to claim all three points.

Ghana benefit from the result

The victory keeps Ivory Coast top of Group C with nine points from three matches, three points ahead of The Gambia.

The result also benefits Ghana, who defeated Somalia 2-0 earlier on Thursday to register their first win in the qualifying campaign.

The group standings could change after the next round of matches, with Ivory Coast scheduled to face The Gambia again and Ghana set to meet Somalia.

If Ivory Coast win again and Ghana also secure victory, the Black Stars could strengthen their position in the group.