Senegal, the defending champions and one of the favorites to win the Africa Cup of Nations 2024, were knocked out by hosts Ivory Coast in a dramatic penalty shootout on Monday night. The match ended 1-1 after 120 minutes of play, with Franck Kessie scoring a late equalizer and a decisive spot-kick for the Elephants.
Senegal started the game brightly and took the lead in the fourth minute when Habib Diallo fired a stunning strike past Sylvain Gbohouo from outside the box. The Lions of Teranga looked in control and had a chance to double their advantage in the second half, but Sadio Mane missed a one-on-one opportunity against the Ivory Coast goalkeeper.
The hosts grew in confidence and pressed for an equalizer, creating several chances through Oumar Diakite, Nicolas Pepe, and Kessie. Their efforts paid off in the 86th minute when referee Pierre Ghislain Atcho awarded them a penalty after reviewing a VAR check. Pepe was brought down by Edouard Mendy in the box, and Kessie calmly converted the spot-kick to send the game into extra time.
Neither team could find a winner in the additional 30 minutes, despite some close calls and tired legs. The match went to a penalty shootout, where both sides scored their first four attempts. However, Moussa Niakhate missed Senegal’s fifth penalty, hitting the post with his low shot. Kessie stepped up again for Ivory Coast and slotted the ball into the bottom corner, sparking wild celebrations among the home fans and players.
Ivory Coast advanced to the quarter-finals, where they will face either Mali or Burkina Faso. Senegal, meanwhile, suffered a heartbreaking exit and failed to retain their title. The result also continued the curse that no defending champions have reached the last eight since 2010.
Senegal coach Aliou Cisse expressed his disappointment and praised his players for their efforts. He said: “It’s a huge sadness for us. We wanted to go further in this competition, but we faced a very good Ivory Coast team. We have to accept it and congratulate them. I’m proud of my players, they gave everything until the end. They showed character and quality, but sometimes it’s not enough.”
Ivory Coast interim coach Emerse Fae, who replaced the sacked Jean-Louis Gasset, hailed his team’s performance and resilience. He said: “It’s a great joy for us. We knew it was going to be a tough game against a very strong Senegal team. We showed a lot of courage and determination. We never gave up, even when we were behind. We believed in ourselves and we were rewarded. I’m very happy for the players and the fans. They deserve this victory.”
