Ivory Coast Stage Incredible Comeback to Top Group F at Africa Cup of Nations
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In a thrilling turn of events, Ivory Coast overcame a two-goal deficit to beat Gabon 3-2 in Group F at the Africa Cup of Nations on Wednesday. The victory, secured by a headed goal from teenager Bazoumana Toure in the dying minutes, propelled the Ivorians to the top of the pool with seven points from three games. Gabon, already eliminated from the tournament, had taken an early lead through Guelor Kanga and Denis Bouanga, but Ivory Coast fought back in the second half. Jean-Philippe Krasso pulled a goal back for the Ivorians before Evann Guessand's equaliser with six minutes remaining set the stage for Toure's winner. The comeback was all the more impressive given Gabon's strong start, which saw them take a 2-0 lead within 21 minutes. However, Ivory Coast's physicality and relentless pursuit of a comeback ultimately paid off, setting up a Round of 16 clash with Burkina Faso in Marrakech next Tuesday. Cameroon, who beat Mozambique 2-1, finished second in the group on goal difference, while Gabon's elimination was sealed after two consecutive defeats. The absence of injured talisman Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang was also felt, but the Ivorians' late surge will be remembered as one of the standout moments of the tournament so far.
