by Joshua Ogunmakinwa
The 34th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON 2023), hosted in Ivory Coast from 13th January to 11th February 2024, unfolded as a tournament of unexpected twists and riveting drama.
Commencing with a dazzling opening ceremony that captivated audiences worldwide, the Elephants of Cote D’Ivoire set the stage with a commanding 2-0 victory over Guinea Bissau’s Djurtus in the inaugural match. The hosts, considered favorites, embraced their role in the biennial event, alongside defending champions Senegal, World Cup semi-finalists Morocco, and seven-time winners Egypt. Algeria, Tunisia, Nigeria, and five-time champion Cameroon were also touted as contenders.
However, the script deviated as less-favored teams secured notable wins in the first round, including Cape Verde defeating Ghana and Namibia triumphing over Tunisia. Ivory Coast faced setbacks, losing 1-0 to Nigeria and suffering a 4-0 defeat to Equatorial Guinea, finishing third in their group. Their qualification hinged on a late goal by Morocco against Zambia, propelling them to the round of 16 as the worst of the four best losers.
Group stages unfolded with surprises, as no top-ranked team except Senegal and Morocco topped their groups. Algeria and Tunisia, pre-tournament favorites, finished at the bottom. Ghana, a four-time champion, exited in the group stage, while Mauritania and Namibia advanced. Coaches faced the axe, including the Ivorian team’s 70-year-old French coach, Jean-Louis Gasset, replaced by former midfielder Emerse Fae.
In the round of 16, Ivory Coast faced defending champions Senegal, producing a stunning 5-4 penalty shootout victory after forcing extra time with a late equalizer. The quarterfinals witnessed dramatic moments, particularly Ivory Coast overcoming Mali with a last-minute goal in extra time.
The semifinals featured former champions, with Ivory Coast prevailing over the Democratic Republic of Congo. Sebastien Haller’s return and a 65th-minute goal secured their place in the final against Nigeria.
Nigeria’s journey, initially underestimated, saw them progress to the final. Despite a modest start, they secured victories over Cameroon, Angola, and South Africa. In their eighth final appearance, Nigeria, led by the enigmatic Troost Ekong, faced Ivory Coast.
The final, staged in Abidjan’s Alassane Quattara Stadium, witnessed Ivory Coast’s comeback prowess. Trailing 1-0 after Troost Ekong’s 38th-minute goal, they secured a dramatic turnaround with goals from Kessie (62nd minute) and Haller (81st minute), claiming their third AFCON title.
While Nigeria maintained their strategy, Ivory Coast’s five significant lineup changes proved crucial. Adingra, Haller, Gradel, Seri, and Kossounou replaced Krasso, Boga, Kouame, Sangare, and Diamonde, impacting the game’s dynamics. In the end, the team with the best strategy, boosted by home support, emerged victorious. Kudos to Ivory Coast!
The tournament extended Nigeria’s record as the team with the most medals (16 in 20 attempts: 3 gold, 5 silver, and 8 bronze). Troost-Ekong, recognized for defensive prowess, was named Player of the Tournament. Nigeria exceeded pre-tournament expectations, emphasizing the need to fortify the midfield and integrate fresh talent for future success. As the curtains fall, African football enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the next World Cup qualification journey.
This piece was penned by Joshua Ogunmakinwa, an inhouse Sport Analyst and Social Commentator for Star Thrill.