Cote d’Ivoire moved to the top of Group C on their own after beating Gambia 2-1 in the CAN 2027 qualifiers on Thursday, 12 November 2026.

The victory at the Stade de la Paix de Bouake was the Elephants’ third in a row and took them to nine points, three clear of Gambia, who remain on six.

Yalcouye and Wahi put hosts in control

Cote d’Ivoire made the stronger start in front of their home supporters and took the lead in the 18th minute.

Malick Yalcouye found the net to give the Elephants an early advantage and reward their positive opening to the match.

The hosts doubled their lead eight minutes later when Elye Wahi scored in the 26th minute. His goal gave Cote d’Ivoire a two-goal cushion and appeared to put them firmly in control.

Gambia responded before half-time, however. Musa Barrow reduced the deficit in the 38th minute, giving the Scorpions renewed hope ahead of the second half.

Elephants hold on

Gambia pushed for an equaliser after the interval, but Cote d’Ivoire remained organised and determined to protect their advantage.

Despite the Scorpions’ efforts, the Elephants resisted the pressure and saw out the match to secure another important result in their qualifying campaign.

The win extends Cote d’Ivoire’s perfect start to three victories from three matches. They now sit alone at the head of Group C, while Gambia remain three points behind them.

The two teams will meet again on Tuesday, 17 November 2026, when the return fixture takes place in Bakau, Gambia.

Kick-off is scheduled for 16:00 GMT, with the Scorpions aiming to respond in front of their home crowd and close the gap at the top of the group.

Cote d’Ivoire will travel with confidence and know that another victory would increase their advantage further while strengthening their position as serious contenders for qualification for CAN 2027.