2023 AFCON: Host nation Ivory Coast kick out defending champions Senegal in dramatic fashion

Ivory Coast triumphed over defending champions Senegal in the Africa Cup of Nations quarter-finals, securing victory through a penalty shootout.

The 1-1 draw in regular time saw Franck Kessie emerge as the hero, converting a crucial penalty in the 86th minute to force extra time.

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Kessie, initially benched by interim coach Emerse Fae, showcased composure in the penalty shootout, securing a 5-4 win for the Ivory Coast after Moussa Niakhate’s miss gave them an advantage.

This dramatic win followed a challenging journey for the Ivory Coast, who barely advanced from the group stage.

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However, the Ivory Coast rallied, and Kessie’s introduction in the second half, along with Pepe, shifted momentum in their favor.

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Yahia Fofana’s crucial save during extra time paved the way for the penalty shootout

Franck Kessie, shouldering the weight of the nation, delivered again in the shootout, securing a quarter-final berth for Ivory Coast