Ivory Coast delivered a commanding performance in the first leg of the CHAN 2024 qualifiers, defeating Burkina Faso 2-0 to take a significant advantage.
The victory, marked by a brace from Oumar Konaté, puts the Elephants in a strong position to advance, while leaving the Stallions with a monumental task in the return leg.
The Elephants, who had already bested Burkina Faso in qualifiers for the previous edition, reasserted their dominance in this encounter.
Konaté’s first goal came in the 16th minute, capitalizing on a defensive lapse from the Burkinabe backline.
The second, in the 50th minute, resulted from a costly error by goalkeeper Philippe Maré, whose handball handed the Ivorian striker a golden opportunity to double the lead.
These critical mistakes proved devastating for Burkina Faso, who now find themselves in a precarious position.
With a two-goal deficit, the Stallions will need an extraordinary performance in the second leg to keep their hopes of CHAN 2024 qualification alive.
The return match, set for December 28 in Bamako, presents a daunting challenge for the Burkinabe side.
Historically, the Elephants have been a stumbling block for Burkina Faso, and overcoming this deficit will require a near-flawless display.
The Stallions A’ must rise to the occasion and deliver an exceptional performance if they are to turn the tie around and secure a place in the final phase of the tournament.
Failure to do so will see Ivory Coast once again deny them the opportunity to advance on the continental stage.
