Cote d’Ivoire  surprised defending champions Nigeria 1-0 in Cairo on Saturday in the Group B opener at the U-23 Africa Cup of Nations – the continent’s qualifying tournament for the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games.

Silas Gnaka scored the winner for the Ivory Coast from the penalty spot after a foul by Olisa Ndah saw him receive his marching orders.

After a tense opening period that provided little in the way of goalscoring opportunities, the game came alive in the second half.

Nigeria’s Taiwo Iwonyi struck the crossbar with a header, but minutes later the team were behind.

Ndah fouled Youssouf Dao in the box and while Gnaka’s effort was partially saved by Nigeria goalkeeper Adamu Abubakar, the ball did cross the line.

“It was a difficult match for both teams,” Nigeria coach Imama Amapakabo admitted. “I said before all the teams here want to win this tournament. First games are usually tough.

“We lost today but we still have a lot to play for. Football is about small details and that’s what made difference today.”

Ivorian coach Soualiho Haidara was delighted with the win ahead of their second meeting against South Africa on Tuesday.

“It was very important for us to win today. Nigeria is a strong and respectable team. I thank my players for their efforts and we will continue to fight. I think our team deserves victory today.”

Soka25east.com