Ivory Coast Under-23 side have moved to the top of Group B at the Maurice Revello Tournament after a determined 3-1 victory over Venezuela in Aubagne, strengthening their push for a place in the semi-finals.
The result marks a strong response from the West African side after their opening-day 3-3 draw with Japan, a match that showcased both attacking promise and defensive vulnerability.
This time, however, the young Elephants showed greater control and resilience to secure all three points.
The match, played at the Stade Municipal de Lattre, saw Ivory Coast take command in key moments despite a spirited fight from Venezuela, who were also chasing their first win of the tournament.
Ivory Coast, coached by Mamadou Doumbia, broke the deadlock in the first half through Jocelin Ta Bi, who continued his fine form after also scoring in the opening match.
His 35th-minute strike gave the African side a deserved lead going into the break, with Ta Bi’s performance later earning him the man-of-the-match award.
After the interval, Venezuela pushed back and found a way into the contest.
Their pressure eventually paid off in the second half when Henry Diaz brought them level in the 70th minute, briefly shifting momentum in favour of the South American side.
But Ivory Coast responded with maturity in the closing stages, underlining their growing reputation as one of Africa’s most exciting youth teams.
Midfielder Maliik Yalcouye restored the lead in the 84th minute, calming nerves and putting the Elephants back in control at a crucial stage of the contest.
Venezuela struggled to recover from that setback, and Ivory Coast sealed the win deep into stoppage time when Dramane Kamagaté struck in the 90+5th minute to complete the 3-1 scoreline.
The victory gives Ivory Coast four points from their opening two Group B matches, putting them ahead of Portugal and Canada in the standings at this early stage of the competition.
It also places them in a strong position to challenge for qualification to the knockout rounds.
The result highlights the continued strength of African representation in the tournament, with Ivory Coast showing both attacking quality and mental resilience against international opposition.
While their opening draw against Japan raised questions about defensive organisation, the win over Venezuela demonstrated improved game management and a sharper edge in key moments.
Attention now turns to the remaining group fixtures, where the young Elephants will aim to maintain momentum and secure progression to the semi-finals of the prestigious youth tournament.
