As reported by the club’s official website, Ivory Coast was defeated by Spain by a 2-5 scoreline, and ultimately, they were knocked out of the Olympics. Manchester United center-back Eric Bailly scored the opener for his country but Spain proved to be too powerful at the end.
Amad Diallo also played via substitution but was unable to help his team score more goals in extra time. Rafa Mir scored the hattrick for Spain which was the main highlighting point for Spain.
Ivory Coast opened the scoring through Eric Bailly in the 10th minute. But soon Spain leveled up as Dani Olmo scored a goal and it was 1-1- by half-time. The second half was action-packed and Amad Diallo was introduced in the 62nd minute. Spain was dominating possession but there were unable to keep the scoreline tight.
Must Read– Eric Bailly could leave United just months after signing a new contract
Ivory Coast scored their second goal through Gradel who beat Unai Simon in the 91st minute. But the joy was short-lived as Rafa Mir capitalized on some careless defending by the Ivory Coast defenders to score the leveler and send the game into extra time.
From there on it was Spain’s game, Rafa Mir scored two more goals and Oyarzabal also scored a penalty after a handball from Eric Bailly.
It was a cruel end for the Ivory Coast players but they should be proud of their team and their progress.
Eric Bailly was disappointed after their defeat and took to Instagram to share his thoughts. He said: “Sad for being eliminated. We battled with everything we had. Proud to be a part of this team that shortly will give more joy to our country. We will try again next time.
It was heartbreaking for Ivory Coast to lose the h=chance to enter the semi-finals but they should be proud of their performances and the progress they have made.
Eric Bailly and Amad Diallo will return to Manchester United’s training base at Carrington and will start their training ahead of the new season.
