World Cup (Q): Bayo header lifts Ivory Coast past Burundi

Ivory Coast reclaimed the top spot in Group F of 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying from the African region after Friday’s narrow win over Burundi in Abidjan. A first-half strike was enough to hand Emerse Fae’s charges maximum points.

The Elephants kicked off the tie on a high with early pressure. It did not take them long to break the deadlock, as Vakoun Bayo headed home from close range three minutes into the match to score the opener. Simon Adingra was instrumental in assisting the goal and tried his luck to double the lead but he was denied by Burundi goalie Jonathan Nahimana. The away side were limited to fewer scoring chances as they struggled to create danger against the reigning African champions.

The second half saw the same pattern, with the hosts dominating the proceedings. Bayo came the closest to adding a second but headed wide. Ibrahima Sangare should have made it 2-0 ten minutes before time but his rebound shot hit the post, with second-half substitute Sebastien Haller unable to score from close range as he was blocked by the clever Nahimana.

Fae should be worried about the lack of goals as Ivory Coast will visit Gabon on matchday eight for the crucial away tie in the qualifier. Ivory Coast tops the group with 19 points, while Gabon are second with one point less. Burundi are out of automatic qualification but they still mathematically remain in contention for the playoffs after collecting ten points to occupy third.

Group F Table (7 matches played)

1. Ivory Coast- 19 points
2. Gabon- 18 points
3. Burundi- 10 points
4. The Gambia- 7 points
5. Kenya- 6 points
6. Seychelles- 0 points