Afcon 2023: Cote d’Ivoire 2-0 Guinea Bissau: Fofana and Krasso power Elephants past Djurtus

Cote d’Ivoire kicked off their campaign to win a third Africa Cup of Nations title with a 2-0 win against Guinea Bissau at Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Abidjan.

Goals from Seko Fofana and Jean-Philippe Krasso were all the Elephants needed to subdue Baciro Cande’s Djurtus on Saturday night.

The hosts went into the game as outstanding favourites having stayed unbeaten in their last seven matches in all competitions.

It took them just four minutes through Fokana – with the Lens midfielder drilling an unstoppable shot past goalkeeper Jonas Mendes thanks to an assist from Franck Kessie.

That goal was a reality check for the Djurtus who threatened on few occasions. Nonetheless, it was Cote d’Ivoire looked destined for another goal. This time, Fofana’s missile in the 35th minute kissed the woodwork.

Guinea Bissau put up an improved performance in the second half but the attacking trio of Carlos Mane, Mama Balde, and Mauro Rodrigues could not beat goalkeeper Yahia Fofana.

Cote d’Ivoire doubled their lead two minutes before the hour mark as Krasso acrobatically fired home after great work from Jonathan Bamba.

That goal killed the fighting spirit Cande’s men who will now look forward to returning ways against Equatorial Guinea.

For the Ivorians, they face a face a quality opposition in Nigeria on Wednesday with the battle ground the Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Abidjan.