In a dramatic upset, Côte d’Ivoire eliminated defending champions Senegal in the U17 Africa Cup of Nations quarterfinals on Friday, triumphing 5-3 on penalties after a tense 0-0 draw in Berrechid, Morocco.
The Ivorian side, reduced to 10 men after Obli Kouamé’s late red card (89’), held firm against Senegal’s pressure before showcasing nerves of steel in the shootout.
Earlier, Souhalio Bamba (4’) and Bi Junior Zahi threatened Senegal’s goal, while the Teranga Lions’ star forward Alynho Haïdara was effectively contained.
Senegal, cautious for much of the match, pushed aggressively in the second half but failed to break Ivorian resilience.
The victory propels Côte d’Ivoire into a semifinal clash against hosts Morocco, as the young Elephants continue their dream run in the tournament.
