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Ivory Coast's defeat against Sierra Leone: A setback in Monrovia

by Naomi Lekadou October 16, 2024, 11:59 a.m. 1.7 k views

Ivory Coast players warm up during the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations Afcon Finals football match between Equatorial Guinea and Ivory Coast at Japoma Stadium in Douala, Cameroon on 12 January 2022 ©Shaun Roy/Sports Inc - Photo by Icon sport - --- - Maxwel CORNET - Max GRADEL - Simon DELI - Sebastien HALLER - Ibrahim SANGARE - Habib MAIGA - Stade Omnisport - Douala (Cameroon)

Tuesday 15th October, 2024, the Ivory Coast suffered an unexpected defeat against the Sierra Leone, which won 1-0 in a match played at MonroviaThis highly anticipated match, part of the qualifications for the 2025 African Cup of Nations (CAN), was marked by a single goal, which sealed the fate of the Ivorian Elephants.

A Difficult Match

Sierra Leone, considered the underdogs in this match, were able to exploit their opportunities against an Ivorian team that struggled to find its rhythm. Despite dominating possession and creating several chances by Ivorian stars such as Wilfried Zaha et Franck kessie, the Sierra Leonean defense remained solid throughout the match.

The decisive goal came in the second half, after a defensive error by the Ivorians, which allowed the Sierra Leonean striker to score the only goal of the match. The Elephants, despite their efforts to equalize, failed to break through the opposing defense and must now learn from this defeat to get back on track in the coming matches.

Consequences for Ivory Coast

This defeat complicates the position of Ivory Coast in the race for qualification for the CAN 2025, although they still remain in the competition. However, it represents a hard blow for a team that had the ambition to dominate its opponents in these qualifying phases. The coach Faé emerged and his players will have to react quickly to regain their winning dynamic and secure a place in the continental tournament.

This setback also highlights some tactical and coordination issues that will need to be corrected before the next matches. The Ivorians, although favourites in their group, cannot afford to take their next opponents lightly.

A Warning Before the Next Matches

This defeat against Sierra Leone is a warning to the Elephants. At this stage of the competition, no team should be underestimated, and Côte d'Ivoire will have to redouble its efforts to avoid dropping crucial points in the upcoming qualifying matches.

Ivorian supporters are hoping for a strong comeback from their national team to continue to nourish the dream of winning the CAN 2025.