In the kickoff of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Cote d’Ivoire, the host nation, asserted their dominance with a commanding 2-0 triumph over Guinea Bissau.

Seko Fofana, the Al Nassr attacking midfielder, wasted no time making an impact, breaking the deadlock just four minutes into the game with a powerful strike from inside the area.

His early goal set the tone for the match, and he came close to scoring again with a curler tipped onto the crossbar by Guinea Bissau goalkeeper Djoco. The score stood at 1-0 at halftime.

Twelve minutes into the second half, Jean Krasso extended Cote d’Ivoire’s lead with a brilliant display of ball control inside the area before smashing home, doubling the scoreline and securing their dominance in the game.

The Elephants cruised the rest of the way despite a few mishaps in defence. With this impressive victory, they claim top spot in Group A, earning the three maximum points. Seko Fofana was the pick of the bunch, dominating in midfield and showing his class throughout.

The final standings post the first round of group stage matches hinge on the outcome of the second game in the group, scheduled between Nigeria and Equatorial Guinea tomorrow.