By Eniola Olatunji

 

The Elephants of Ivory Coast rang in the New Year in spectacular fashion on New Year’s Eve, producing a thrilling comeback to defeat Gabon 3–2 and knock them out of the Africa Cup of Nations in a dramatic Group F finale in Marrakesh.

 

While many countries were already chanting “Happy New Year,” football fans inside the stadium witnessed a night of high drama as Gabon raced into an early two-goal lead and appeared set for their first win of the tournament. Guelor Kanga opened the scoring in the 11th minute before a crowd of 20,838 spectators, and Denis Bouanga doubled the advantage just 10 minutes later, scoring in the 21st minute.

 

Stung by the early setback, Ivory Coast gradually found their rhythm. Their fightback began just before halftime when experienced forward Wilfried Zaha threaded a pass to Jean Krasso, who calmly finished in the 44th minute to give the Elephants hope going into the break.

 

The momentum fully shifted in the second half following tactical substitutions. Evan Guessand, introduced in the 68th minute, made an instant impact, converting a perfectly weighted pass from Christopher Operi in the 84th minute to level the score at 2–2. Operi was again the provider moments later, setting up 19-year-old substitute Bazoumana Touré—also introduced in the 68th minute—to score the decisive goal in stoppage time (90+1), completing a remarkable comeback.

 

Ivory Coast thought they had added a fourth goal deep into stoppage time, but VAR ruled out Yari Diomande’s effort in the 90+6th minute.

 

In the other Group F match played in Agadir, the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon also staged a comeback, defeating Mozambique 2–1. Mozambique took the lead in the 23rd minute when Geny Catamo found the net after being set up by defender Nanani. Cameroon drew level through an unfortunate own goal by Mozambique midfielder Nené of Black Bulls FC, before Bayer Leverkusen forward Christian Kofane struck the winning goal in the 55th minute to seal victory for the Lions.

The cover photo features Cameroon’s match-winner, Christian Kofane.

 

At the conclusion of Group F, Ivory Coast finished top with seven points, scoring five goals and conceding three. Cameroon also ended on seven points but placed second with four goals scored and two conceded. Mozambique finished third with three points, scoring four goals and conceding five, setting up a Round of 16 clash against Nigeria. Gabon exited the tournament without a point, despite scoring four goals and conceding seven.

 

The AFCON knockout stage now beckons, promising even more drama as Africa’s finest teams battle for continental glory.