Morocco 2025 CAN Qualifiers: Côte d'Ivoire maintained their strong position on Friday night against Zambia. In their opening match of the CAN 2025 qualifiers, the Elephants secured a 2-0 victory over the Chipolopolos, thanks to a decisive double from Jean-Philippe Krasso, who was introduced during the game.

It was a hard-fought win for the Elephants, who were pushed to their limits by a resilient Zambian team. Despite dominating possession and earning 10 corners, the defending African champions struggled to break through the Zambian defense and went into halftime with a 0-0 scoreline.

Key Substitutions: Bénie Traoré and Jean-Philippe Krasso Make the Difference

After a frustrating first half, Coach Emerse Fae's men came out with renewed determination and intensity in the second half. The breakthrough came in the 73rd minute with the introduction of Bénie Traoré and Jean-Philippe Krasso. Simon Adingra set up Krasso inside the penalty area, and the Paris FC forward made a quick turn and shot, beating goalkeeper Lawrence Mulenga.

With the score at 1-0, Côte d'Ivoire gained momentum. Eleven minutes later, Krasso added a second goal, this time assisted by Bénie Traoré. Krasso lifted the ball over the Zambian goalkeeper with a clever chip, sealing the 2-0 victory for the Elephants. Côte d'Ivoire's win marks a strong start to their CAN 2025 qualifying campaign in Group G.