Ivory Coast completed the March FIFA window with two victories but were forced to grind out Monday's 1-0 Group F defeat of Gambia in Abidjan from 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying.
A first half header from Sébastien Haller and a strong performance from goalkeeper Yahia Fofana was enough for the Elephants. The hosts got off to a strong enough start, controlling play in the first half while facing the occasional threat from a talented Gambian attack.
An excellent buildup produced the only goal of the match in the 15th minute when Simon Adingra's cross found the head of Haller for a poacher's finish past Gambia goalkeeper Ebrima Jarju.
But the warning signs were there in Abidjan that this was not going to be an easy result for the hosts. In the second half, Gambia coach introduced winger Abdoulie Sanyang and his pace caused all sorts of issues for the Ivorian defense.
Sanyang made an excellent run in the 83rd minute and his cross found fellow substitute Alassana Jatta but Ivorian keeper Fofana got down to save a rather weak shot. Fofana confirmed the victory early in stoppage time when Sanyang got behind to the end line, blocking Sanyang's cross attempt with Jatta lurking behind.
It wasn't the most convincing week from the Elephants but they retain first place in Group F, leading Gabon by one point with both teams running away from the rest of the group. It was another frustrating result for Gambia who remain a disappointing fifth place on only four points from six matches.
Group F Table
GP | Points | |
Ivory Coast | 6 | 16 |
Gabon | 6 | 15 |
Burundi | 5 | 7 |
Kenya | 6 | 6 |
Gambia | 6 | 4 |
Seychelles | 5 | 0 |
The group winners qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Four of the nine group runners-up qualify for a playoff to determine Africa's representative at the intercontinental qualifying playoff.
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