Ivory Coast Cruise Into Quarter-Finals with 3-0 win

Defending champions, Ivory Coast, secured their place in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations quarter-finals with an authoritative 3-0 victory over Burkina Faso on Tuesday, 6 January.

The result sees the Elephants become the first title holders to win a knockout match since that of Egypt in 2010.

Manchester United’s Amad Diallo was the catalyst for the win in Marrakesh, Morocco. He broke the deadlock in the 20th minute with a composed finish, despite Burkinabe protests regarding a potential foul in the build-up. Diallo then turned provider, assisting Yan Diomande, who doubled the lead with a spectacular curled effort after 32 minutes.

Burkina Faso threatened briefly, as Dango Ouattara hit the post and forced a sharp save from Yahia Fofana, but they could not find a breakthrough. Nineteen-year-old Bazoumana Toure eventually ended any hopes of a comeback, scoring a clinical solo goal in the 87th minute after a powerful run from his own half.

Emerse Fae’s side now prepares for a heavyweight encounter against seven-time winners Egypt in Agadir this Saturday, 10 January. The upcoming clash presents the Ivorians with an opportunity to continue their historic title defence against the last team to retain the trophy successfully.

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