Young Elephants clinch bronze medal in U-17 AFCON
19/04/2025 06:44
Ivory Coast's U-17 national team demonstrated resilience to secure third place at the U-17 Africa Cup of Nations, overcoming Burkina Faso 5-2 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in Casablanca.
The Young Elephants recovered from a first-half deficit to force penalties at the Stade Larbi Zaouli, where they ultimately prevailed in a shootout.
The Stallions appeared to have the upper hand early on, breaking the deadlock in the 28th minute through Halidou Diakite, who capitalised on a defensive frailty following a corner kick.
Their midfield controlled the tempo throughout the first half, repeatedly catching the Ivorians off-guard with swift counterattacks.
The game’s complexion changed after the break. Ivory Coast’s tactical adjustments, particularly the introduction of Alynho Haidara, proved decisive.
The substitute netted the equaliser in the 84th minute, finishing off a move that originated from the left wing.
The match’s closing stages provided additional drama when Burkina Faso’s Prince Ouedraogo received a red card following a VAR review in the 90th minute, though his teammates managed to hold on for penalties despite mounting Ivorian pressure.
In the ensuing shootout, the Young Elephants displayed remarkable composure. The quartet of Haidara, Souhalio Bamba, Vaboue Doumbia, and Yannis Touali converted their spot kicks with conviction.
Burkina Faso’s hopes were crushed by crucial misses from Mikael Coulibaly and Comi Ouattara.
The victory marks another milestone for Ivory Coast youth football as they secured a well-deserved bronze medal after showing tremendous character to fight back from behind.
