Friendly: Ivory Coast win on spot kicks following drab draw with Canada

The Elephants of Ivory Coast will leave Canada with some satisfaction after defeating the hosts in a penalty kick shootout on Tuesday evening following their friendly match at BMO Field in Toronto.

Experienced goalkeeper Badra Ali Sangaré saved twice from Canadian spot kicks before Rangers FC midfielder Mohamed Diomande confirmed a 5-4 shootout victory.

AND IVORY COAST WIN THE GAME OVER CANADA! 👏🇨🇮#CanadianShield2025 pic.twitter.com/ilwnIPUaMf

— TSN (@TSN_Sports) June 11, 2025

The spot kicks were a reward after an unspectacular match. Both teams appeared to be far from top gear with only one shot on target between both sides and the match always looked destined to end scoreless.

The exhibition was part of a mini-tournament called the Canadian Shield, which required penalty kicks after the full time whistle. Sekhukhune United goalkeeper Sangaré produced two saves as the Ivorian selection overcame an embarrassing miss from Stade Reims midfielder Mory Gbane to come out on top.

Badra Ali Sangaré with the SAVE.#CanadianShield2025 pic.twitter.com/gbScblMSpJ

— TSN (@TSN_Sports) June 11, 2025

Regarding the performance, there will be plenty of things for head coach Emerse Faé and his staff to evaluate. The Elephants went two matches without scoring a goal against New Zealand and Canada, losing their first match against the All Whites after failing to capitalize on their dominance of the ball.

Ivory Coast resumes 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying in early December when they host Burundi before traveling to Gabon. The Elephants are currently the Group F leaders, one point clear of Gabon with four games remaining.

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