Ivory Coast booked their place in the semi-finals of the U17 Africa Cup of Nations after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Senegal, following a tense 0-0 stalemate in regulation time.
The quarter-final, played on Friday, saw both sides struggle to assert clear dominance during regular play.
While the encounter was tightly contested throughout, it was the Ivorian side that displayed greater composure in the shootout, converting all five penalties to claim a 5-3 win after Senegal faltered at a crucial moment.
Senegal entered the match as one of the tournament’s favourites, yet were slow to find their rhythm.
The Lion Cubs appeared subdued in the opening stages, as the Ivorians took early initiative with aggressive pressing and successive corner kicks, forcing the Senegalese defence into action.
Senegal managed their first corner only in the 19th minute, a reflection of their lacklustre start.
Gradually, Pape Ibrahima Faye’s men found their footing, improving their control in midfield.
However, their attacking efforts were frequently stifled by a resilient Ivorian backline.
The intent was present, but opportunities were few and far between, with the final ball often lacking precision.
The pattern continued into the second half, with both sides creating half-chances but failing to break the deadlock.
As the minutes ticked on, the match grew more physical.
Tensions reached a peak late in the game when Ivory Coast were reduced to ten men.
Defender Obli Kouamé Jean Médéric was shown a red card in the 89th minute after a reckless high-footed challenge, leaving his team a man down for the closing moments.
Despite the numerical advantage, Senegal were unable to capitalise, and the match proceeded to penalties.
In the decisive shootout, it was Ousseynou Ndiaye who missed for Senegal, striking the ball off-target.
Ivory Coast, in contrast, remained unfazed under pressure, converting all five of their spot-kicks to seal progression.
The result ends Senegal’s hopes of a semi-final appearance and keeps Ivory Coast’s dream of a first U17 continental title alive.
It was a battle defined by discipline, endurance, and mental fortitude—qualities the Ivorians displayed when it mattered most.
