AFCON 2015: Côte d’Ivoire Crowned Champions as Ghana Sweep Individual Awards
Côte d’Ivoire clinched their second Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title on Sunday night in Bata, overcoming Ghana in a dramatic penalty shootout that ended 9-8 after 11 rounds. While the Elephants celebrated continental glory, Ghana emerged with a consolation prize — a host of individual accolades that showcased their quality throughout the tournament.
In a tightly contested final that finished goalless after 120 minutes, the two West African giants were eventually separated by an epic penalty shootout. Goalkeeper Boubacar Barry, the unlikely hero, saved a crucial spot-kick and then stepped up to score the winning penalty, sealing victory for Côte d’Ivoire and ending their 23-year wait since their first title — also won against Ghana on penalties in 1992.
Despite the heartbreak, Ghana walked away with top individual honours. Christian Atsu, on loan at Everton from Chelsea, was named the tournament’s Best Player, following a string of standout performances. He also earned the Goal of the Tournament award for a sublime 30-metre lob against Guinea in the quarter-finals — a strike that underscored his attacking flair and technical brilliance.
Midfielder Afriyie Acquah was recognised for his commanding presence in the final and was voted Man of the Match in the title decider, highlighting his rise as a reliable engine in Ghana’s midfield.
Meanwhile, Ghana’s vice-captain André Ayew finished the tournament as joint top scorer, with three goals to his name. He shared the honour with four others: Tunisia’s Ahmed Akaïchi, Equatorial Guinea’s Javier Balboa, and DR Congo duo Thievy Bifouma and Dieumerci Mbokani.
Although the Black Stars fell short of ending their 33-year title drought, their resurgence under coach Avram Grant was widely acknowledged. After a turbulent start — including injuries and internal concerns — Ghana reached the final with style, defeating Guinea and host nation Equatorial Guinea en route.
For Côte d’Ivoire, the triumph marked redemption for a golden generation that had come close in previous years. It also cemented Hervé Renard’s legacy in African football — the Frenchman became the first coach to win the AFCON with two different countries, having previously led Zambia to an unforgettable victory in 2012.
As the curtain falls on the 30th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations, the 2015 tournament will be remembered not only for Côte d’Ivoire’s long-awaited success but also for the emergence of a new wave of African football stars — many of them Ghanaian — ready to leave their mark on the global stage.
