Ivory Coast, the hosts of the next Africa Cup of Nations, got their campaign off to a flying start on Friday, defeating Zambia 3-1.
Although Ivory Coast has qualified as the hosts, they will also play in the qualification games but will lose the top slot to the second-placed team if they finish first in their group.
Wilfred Zaha's impact was seen immediately after his appearance in the second half, following 67 minutes of no goals.
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His attempted cross was deflected, resulting in a corner kick. Zaha's quick corner was sent into Zambia's box by Max Gradel and met an unguarded Serge Aurier at the backpost, who thankfully tucked it into the back of the net.
In the 75th minute, Christian Kouame doubled the advantage with a well-placed header from another corner kick. With two minutes remaining in regulation time, the Elephants put the game out of reach for Zambia. Ibrahim Sangare of PSV Eindhoven scored after Jean Kouassi's feed into the box.
Patson Daka of Leicster City scored Zambia's consolation in the 94th minute. The victory also marked the debut of new coach Jean-Louis Gasset.
