Cote d'Ivoire Women took a significant step towards Olympic qualification with a convincing 3-0 win over DR Congo Women in their CAF Women's Olympic qualification match. The Ivorians controlled the game from start to finish, showcasing their attacking quality and defensive solidity.

A dominant display

Cote d'Ivoire Women started on the front foot, pressing high and creating chances early. The breakthrough arrived in the 19th minute when forward Inès Konan latched onto a through ball and slotted past the goalkeeper. The Ivorians doubled their lead in the 38th minute through a stunning long-range strike from captain Nina Kpaho. DR Congo struggled to cope with the pace and movement of the Ivorian attack.

The second half continued in the same vein. Cote d'Ivoire added a third goal in the 67th minute when substitute Rebecca Elloh finished off a flowing team move. DR Congo rarely threatened, managing only a few half-chances. The Ivorian defence, marshalled by goalkeeper Cynthia Djohore, was rarely troubled, and the midfield dominated possession.

Key moments

• 19' — Inès Konan opens the scoring with a clinical finish.
• 38' — Nina Kpaho doubles the lead with a spectacular long-range effort.
• 67' — Rebecca Elloh adds a third after a slick team move.
• 84' — DR Congo's best chance is cleared off the line by the Ivorian defence.

Tactical story

Cote d'Ivoire Women lined up in a 4-3-3 formation, with quick wingers and an aggressive midfield press. They suffocated DR Congo's attempts to build from the back, forcing turnovers in dangerous areas. The Ivorians' movement off the ball was excellent, creating space for through balls and crosses. DR Congo, meanwhile, sat deep and tried to counter, but their transitions were too slow to trouble the Ivorian defence.

Standout players

Inès Konan was a constant threat, scoring the opener and linking play effectively. Captain Nina Kpaho led by example with a superb goal and controlled the midfield. Rebecca Elloh made an impact from the bench, scoring the third. For DR Congo, goalkeeper Bénédicte Kanku made several saves to keep the score respectable.

What it means

The victory puts Cote d'Ivoire Women in a commanding position in the Olympic qualification campaign, with a healthy goal difference. DR Congo Women face a difficult task in the return leg. The Ivorians' performance sends a clear message that they are serious contenders for a place at the Olympic Games.