Ivory Coast produced a stunning late turnaround to defeat Gabon 3-2, completing a remarkable comeback after falling two goals behind in a dramatic Africa Cup of Nations Group F encounter.
The Elephants went into the match knowing victory could secure a top-two finish, while Gabon had already been eliminated.
Despite that, the Panthers showed no signs of easing off and shocked the reigning champions by surging into a 2-0 lead within the opening 21 minutes.
Guelor Kanga opened the scoring after reacting quickest to a rebound when Alban Lafont could only parry Teddy Averlant’s effort.
Moments later, Denis Bouanga doubled the advantage with a superb first-time finish into the bottom corner.
Ivory Coast looked shaken but almost pulled one back when Oumar Diakite’s powerful strike crashed off the woodwork after a slick exchange with Franck Kessie.
Their persistence paid off before the break, as Wilfried Zaha teed up Jean-Philippe Krasso for a simple close-range finish to reduce the deficit.
Gabon had chances to restore their two-goal cushion early in the second half but failed to take them.
Clench Loufilou dragged his effort wide at the far post, while Averlant also squandered a clear opening from close range.
Seeking inspiration, coach Emerse Fae turned to his bench and introduced Manchester United youngster Amad Diallo, whose first contribution was a free-kick that flew over the bar.
The equaliser eventually arrived through another substitute, with Christopher Operi’s corner met by Evann Guessand, who powered home an impressive header to make it 2-2.
Just as Gabon appeared set to salvage a point, Ivory Coast struck decisively in stoppage time. Bazoumana Toure connected brilliantly with Operi’s cross, heading past the goalkeeper to complete the comeback.
Yan Diomande later found the net again, but his effort was ruled out for offside.
The victory confirmed Ivory Coast as Group F winners, finishing ahead of Cameroon, who edged Mozambique 2-1 in the other late fixture.
Mozambique also progressed as one of the best third-placed teams, leaving Gabon to reflect on a campaign that ended with defeat in all their matches.
