Ivory Coast secure 2-0 victory over Ghana in Africa Cup of Nations qualifier

Ivory Coast claim win with two second-half goals

Ivory Coast men's national football team defeated Ghana men's national football team 2-0 at Stade de Bouaké on Thursday, 24 September 2026, in an Africa Cup of Nations Qualifying match for Group G. The result was decided by goals from Malick Yalcouyé and Franck Kessié, giving Ivory Coast a winning start in the group.

Goals set Ivory Coast on course

The opening goal came just before half-time, at the 44th minute, when Malick Yalcouyé found the net to put Ivory Coast ahead 1-0. Ghana responded but failed to equalise. The hosts extended their lead in the 58th minute through a penalty converted by Franck Kessié, making the score 2-0. This second goal ultimately sealed the victory for Ivory Coast.

Discipline and substitutions

The match saw four yellow cards, evenly split between the teams. For Ghana, Brandon Thomas-Asante was booked in the 34th minute, followed by Christopher Bonsu Baah in the 56th minute. Ivory Coast received two yellow cards, with Malick Yalcouyé booked in stoppage time of the first half (45+2 minutes) and Christ Inao Oulaï cautioned in the 86th minute. Neither side received any red cards. Ivory Coast made three substitutions, while Ghana used five during the match.

Key statistics highlight Ivory Coast dominance

Ivory Coast enjoyed a greater share of possession at 58.9% compared to Ghana's 41.1%. The home side registered 12 shots including three on target, while Ghana managed 11 shots with two on target. Ivory Coast also enjoyed a significant advantage in corners, earning six compared to just one for Ghana. Fouls were relatively even, with Ivory Coast committing 17 and Ghana 16. Goalkeepers were tested less frequently, with Ivory Coast making two saves and Ghana one. Ivory Coast was caught offside twice, while Ghana was not flagged for any offsides.

Implications for Group G standings and next fixtures

With this win, Ivory Coast tops Group G after one match, holding three points with a goal difference of +2. Ghana sit bottom of the group with no points and a goal difference of -2. Both teams will look to build on their performances in upcoming fixtures as the qualification campaign progresses.

Goals and key moments

Match statistics

Impact on the table