Ivory Coast edged past Gambia with a 1-0 victory on Monday at the Félix Houphouët-Boigny Stadium in Abidjan, securing a vital three points in their bid for World Cup qualification.
Despite a lack of clinical finishing, the Elephants found their breakthrough through Sébastien Haller, while goalkeeper Yahia Fofana’s heroics ensured they maintained their lead atop Group F.
Head coach Emerse Faé made a few adjustments to his starting lineup, with Ousmane Diomandé returning to central defense, quelling any speculation of discord between the Sporting CP defender and the coaching staff.
In attack, Simon Adingra was handed a start on the left flank, while Nicolas Pépé operated from the right.
Ivory Coast wasted little time asserting their dominance, and their early pressure paid off in the 15th minute. Adingra delivered an accurate cross from the left, which Haller met with a powerful header past Gambian goalkeeper Ebrima Jarju.
The goal marked a much-needed return to form for the striker, who had endured a dry spell in national team colors.
The Elephants pressed for a second, with Wilfried Singo and his teammates probing for weaknesses in the Gambian backline.
However, the Scorpions held firm, weathering waves of Ivorian attacks. As the game progressed, Gambia grew into the contest, exploiting occasional gaps in the hosts’ defense. Alieu Fadera came close to leveling the score, but his effort missed the target.
With time running out, Gambia increased the pressure, forcing Fofana into a series of crucial saves in the 71st, 83rd, and 90th+1 minutes.
The Ivorian goalkeeper’s outstanding performance ensured his side held on to their narrow lead, securing a result that keeps them in control of their World Cup qualification campaign.
Ivory Coast remains at the top of Group F, edging closer to a place at the 2026 World Cup. Meanwhile, Gambia’s hopes have suffered a major blow, as they now find themselves trailing significantly in the standings.
Despite a performance that lacked fluidity, the Elephants did enough to claim a victory that moves them one step closer to their ultimate goal.
