Wilfred Zaha’s solitary strike in the 76th minute was all it took for the Ivory Coast to defeat a very impressive Malian side.
At the end of the game, Mali had 60% possession, Ivory Coast had 40%. Mali produced 18 shots whiles Ivory Coast managed just 8.
However, Mali’s wastefulness was defined by the fact that they only managed to have 4 shots on target as against Ivory Coast’s 2 despite Mali’s dominating performance.
Ivory Coast’s big name players such as Frank Kessie, Nicholas Pepe, Wilfred Bony and Wilfred Zaha failed to come to the party. However, they’ll be happy with the victory. The turning point in the second half was when the Ivorians started using long balls. It worked to perfection as they caught the Malians twice. Jonathan Kodja missed a glaring opportunity but Zaha was clinical.
Mali was simply the better side but failure to convert their chances let them down.
It’s football and the best team doesn’t always win but the team that utilizes their chances, no matter how few carries the day.
Sorry, Mali!
Source: EonlineGH.com/ Baiden Gideon
