Malick Yalcouye marked his first appearance for Cote d’Ivoire with a decisive goal in Thursday’s meeting with Ghana.
The 20-year-old Brighton midfielder made an immediate impact against the Black Stars, producing a strong individual performance as Cote d’Ivoire began their qualification campaign for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations with victory.
Yalcouye spoke to Ivoirezine after the match, reflecting on an international debut that followed a similar pattern to his early breakthrough in England. He had also scored during his first Premier League start for Brighton.
Facing traditionally difficult opponents in Ghana, Yalcouye maintained his determination throughout the contest and completed the full 90 minutes. His contribution brought considerable satisfaction to the Cote d’Ivoire camp and gave the midfielder an ideal start to his international career.
Positive start for Cote d’Ivoire
The result also provided an important boost to Cote d’Ivoire’s wider campaign. Alongside his own goal, Yalcouye helped his side secure an opening victory in the CAN 2027 qualifiers, reinforcing the positive momentum around a group with high ambitions.
The Ivorian team will now turn their attention to their second qualifying fixture, when they face Somalia. The match will be Cote d’Ivoire’s next opportunity to build on the successful opening result.
Yalcouye chooses Cote d’Ivoire
The debut also ended a period of uncertainty surrounding Yalcouye’s international future. Mali had shown sustained interest in the player, but the 20-year-old remained committed to representing Cote d’Ivoire.
Despite the repeated approaches, Yalcouye did not change his position and eventually made his first appearance for the Ivorian national team against Ghana.
Cote d’Ivoire will meet Somalia in the second round of the CAN 2027 qualification campaign. The listed betting prices for the match are 1.21 for a Cote d’Ivoire victory, 8.00 for a draw and 22.00 for a Somalia win.