The host nation of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Ivory Coast, began their campaign with a convincing 2-0 victory over Guinea-Bissau on Saturday evening.
The Elephants, who are among the favourites to win the tournament, scored two goals through Seko Fofana and Jean-Philippe Krasso to secure the three points in their Group A opener.
Fofana opened the scoring in the fourth minute, capitalizing on a poor pass from Jefferson Encada and finding the net despite being crowded by defenders.
Guinea-Bissau struggled to create chances, and their hopes were dashed in the 59th minute when Opa Sangante’s poor clearance fell to Krasso, who slotted home with ease.
Ivory Coast will aim to continue their winning streak when they face Nigeria on January 18.
Guinea-Bissau will try to bounce back when they play against Equatorial Guinea on the same day.
