Côte d'Ivoire made a powerful return to the TotalEnergies CAF Women's Africa Cup of Nations with a 4-1 victory over Burkina Faso in their Group B opener at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca on Monday night. The Lady Elephants, playing at the continental finals for the first time in 12 years, produced a dominant first-half display to take control of the West African derby before seeing out the win after the break.
Lady Elephants Strike Early
Côte d'Ivoire entered the match with high expectations after a long absence from the TotalEnergies WAFCON stage, and they quickly showed their intent. Rebecca Elloh, one of the few players in the squad with previous WAFCON experience, gave the Ivorians the lead in the seventh minute from the penalty spot. The early goal settled Côte d'Ivoire and allowed them to impose their rhythm on the game.
Burkina Faso Respond After Break
Burkina Faso, appearing in only their second TotalEnergies WAFCON tournament, needed a strong reaction after the interval. They found one almost immediately, with Adama Congo reducing the deficit in the 46th minute after being assisted by Balkissa Sawadogo. The goal gave the Lady Stallions brief hope and reflected the confidence head coach Issa Balbone had spoken about before the match.
Pedros' Side Make Early Statement
The victory will please Reynald Pedros, who had said before the tournament that Côte d'Ivoire wanted to give everything and leave Morocco with no regrets. His side looked prepared, confident, and physically ready after arriving early in Morocco for their training camp. The blend of experience and younger energy was clear, with Elloh providing composure, Ines Konan delivering goals, and Nsira Ouedraogo contributing both a goal and an assist.
The result gives Côte d'Ivoire the perfect start in Group B after Tanzania had earlier stunned defending champions South Africa with a 2-1 victory. Group B has already taken an unexpected shape, and the Lady Elephants will know that a strong start could be decisive in the race for the quarter-finals. The top two teams in each group qualify for the knockout stage, and Côte d'Ivoire have immediately placed themselves in a strong position.
Source: Joy Online
