Ivory Coast Knocks Out Defending Champions Senegal to Reach AFCON Quarter-Finals

Ivory Coast triumphed over the defending champions, Senegal, in a dramatic penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw in extra time. The match, held in Yamoussoukro, saw Franck Kessie emerge as the hero for the hosts, converting the decisive penalty and securing Ivory Coast’s place in the quarter-finals.

The game began with an early advantage for Senegal, as Habib Diallo scored in the fourth minute, assisted by a cross from Sadio Mane. However, Ivory Coast rallied back, with Franck Kessie scoring a crucial penalty four minutes before the end of regular time, leading the match into extra time and eventually to penalties.

This victory marks a significant turnaround for Ivory Coast, who had a challenging group stage with two defeats. Now, the Elephants are set to face either Mali or Burkina Faso in the quarter-finals, with the latter scheduled to play their last-16 tie in Korhogo on Tuesday.

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