Ivory Coast Kicks Off Africa Cup of Nations Qualifiers with Victory Over Zambia

The Ivory Coast began their defence of the Africa Cup of Nations title by beating Zambia 2-0 in their opening qualifier for the 2025 finals. Substitute striker Jean-Philippe Krasso scored twice in the final 16 minutes. Other former champions Egypt, Morocco, and the Democratic Republic of Congo also secured wins.

The Ivory Coast left it late but made a winning start to defending their Africa Cup of Nations title, beating Zambia 2-0 at home in their opening qualifier for the 2025 final on Friday.

The Ivorians, who clinched the last edition on home soil in February, are strong contenders to be among the top two finishers in Group G and qualify for the next tournament. Substitute striker Jean-Philippe Krasso was the hero, scoring twice in the final 16 minutes after coming off the bench in Bouake.

In other qualifying matches, Morocco, the 2025 host, secured a 4-1 victory against Gabon, with Hakim Ziyech converting two penalties, while former champions Egypt and the Democratic Republic of Congo also emerged victorious. Senegal, however, had to settle for a 1-1 draw against Burkina Faso after conceding a late equalizer.

(With inputs from agencies.)