Jean-Philippe Krasso scored a brace of second-half goals to see reigning Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) champions Ivory Coast begin their qualification campaign for the 2025 edition of the tournament with a hard-fought 2-0 home win over Group G rivals Zambia at Stade de la Paix in Bouake on Friday.
The Elephants had to sweat to overcome Chipolopolo in a repeat of the 2012 AFCON final, but ultimately prevailed on the back of Krassos double after he rose off the bench with just under 20 minutes of regulation time left to play.
Ivory Coast dominated the first half and enjoyed the majority of possession, but they managed just two shots on target, both of which were repelled by Zambia goalkeeper Tresford Mulenga.
The visitors offered little in the way of attacking response, and also suffered an injury blow when Edward Chilufya was forced off the field and replaced by Clatous Chama just 26 minutes into the match.
The second half followed a similar pattern, with the Elephants dictating terms but struggling to break through against a resilient Chipolopolo defence.
