COTE D’IVOIRE surprised African champions, Nigeria 2-1 on Saturday in Brazzaville to finish tops of Group A at the ongoing African Games Brazzaville 2015.
Substitute Estelle Nahi converted a second half penalty to power ‘Les Elephantes’ to a famous victory over the Super Falcons. It was the first time the Ivorians had gotten the better of the Nigerians.
With both teams already qualified for the semis, the encounter held at the Massamba Debat Stadium in Brazzaville was to determine the winner and runner-up of the group.
Mercy Amanze finished off a Chioma Success assist with a shot past Ivorian goalie Cynthia Djohore to give the Falcons the lead on 10 minutes.
Two minutes on, Djohore stood her guard to deny Nigeria captain Evelyn Chiedu from close range.
The Ivorians soon began to find their rhythm and succeeded in getting the equalizer just before the break through Rebecca Amoin, who dribbled Nigeria goalie Oluehi Tochukwu before slamming into the yawning net.
The Ivorians had the better of the exchanges in the second half backed by the introduction of Nahi and Christelle N’guessan.
On 76 minutes, the Ivorians were rewarded a penalty which Nahi converted with ease to wrap up victory.
In the other Group A match in Kintele, hosts Congo and Tanzania settled for a 1-1 draw. Dedina Mbondzo gave the Congolese a first half lead scoring just before recess and Shelder Mafuru drew level for the Twiga Stars on 52 minutes.
Cote d’Ivoire finished on nine points, Nigeria with six points and Tanzania and Congo in that order with a point each.
