Ivory Coast’s U-17 side displayed grit and determination to secure third place at the 2025 U-17 Africa Cup of Nations, defeating Burkina Faso 5-2 on penalties following a 1-1 draw at the Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca.
The Young Elephants showed resilience after trailing in the first half, with a late equaliser and clinical penalty-taking ultimately sealing the bronze medal.
Burkina Faso took the lead in the 28th minute when Halidou Diakite pounced on a loose ball following a corner, capitalising on a defensive lapse. The Stallions dictated the first half, controlling possession and exploiting Ivory Coast’s defence with quick transitions.
However, Ivory Coast responded strongly in the second half. Tactical changes paid off, particularly the introduction of Alynho Haidara, who turned the game around. Haidara grabbed the equaliser in the 84th minute, finishing a sweeping move down the left flank.
Drama unfolded in the closing minutes when Burkina Faso’s Prince Ouedraogo was shown a red card after a VAR review in the 90th minute. Despite being reduced to ten men, the Stallions held firm to force a penalty shootout.
In the shootout, the Young Elephants kept their composure, with Haidara, Souhalio Bamba, Vaboue Doumbia, and Yannis Touali all converting their kicks. Burkina Faso faltered under pressure, with Mikael Coulibaly and Comi Ouattara both missing their attempts.
The victory secures a hard-fought third-place finish for Ivory Coast, highlighting the strength and depth of their youth football setup.
