Already qualified for the knockout stage, Côte d’Ivoire faced Gabon on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, in the final group stage match of AFCON 2025. The Elephants aimed to claim first place in Group F, competing closely with Cameroon, who were level on points and goal difference.

The match ended 3-2 in favor of Côte d’Ivoire, securing them the top spot in Group F in dramatic fashion.

The Elephants faced an early scare, falling 2-0 within the first 30 minutes after goals from Kanga and Bouanga. However, Krasso pulled one back just before halftime, giving Côte d’Ivoire hope. Late substitutes Guessand and Touré completed the comeback, delighting the Ivorian fans in the Marrakech stadium.

With this victory, Côte d’Ivoire now prepares to face Burkina Faso in the round of 16.