Elye Wahi scores first Ivory Coast goal in victory over The Gambia

Elye Wahi opened his goalscoring account for Ivory Coast after finding the back of the net in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying encounter against The Gambia on Thursday, November 12.

The striker marked an important milestone in his international career by scoring the Elephants’ second goal in their Matchday Three fixture at the Stade de la Paix in Bouaké.

Ivory Coast made a bright start to the encounter, taking an early lead through Malick Yalcouyé, who broke the deadlock to put the hosts in control of proceedings.

The reigning African champions continued to apply pressure on their opponents and doubled their advantage through Wahi in the 24th minute.

The former Montpellier and Marseille forward capitalised on a fine pass from Yan Diomandé before finding the back of the net to make it 2-0 for the Elephants.

The goal represented a significant moment for the 22-year-old, who only committed his international future to Ivory Coast earlier this year after previously representing France at youth level.

Having made the decision to represent his country of origin, Wahi will be delighted to have registered his first international goal and begun making his mark on the Ivorian national team.

His breakthrough also provides another attacking option for head coach Emerse Faé as the Elephants seek to build a formidable squad ahead of upcoming international competitions.

Ivory Coast entered the encounter determined to maintain their strong position in the race for qualification and took an important step towards achieving that objective with their commanding start against The Gambia.

The 2027 Africa Cup of Nations will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania, with the Elephants aiming to secure their place at the continental showpiece.