AFCON: Eric Bailly’s missed penalty costs Ivory Coast; Mohamed Salah nets winning strike

Eric Bailly’s missed spot-kick means Ivory Coast lost Wednesday’s Africa Cup of Nations last-16 encounter against Egypt 5-4 on penalties, and have been eliminated.

The Manchester United man put in an impressive display in the 120 minutes, with the game ending 0-0 and requiring penalties.

It was Bailly who missed the only effort in the shoot-out with his strike saved by Mohamed Abou Gabal. Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah converted Egypt’s fifth and final spot-kick to ensure they progressed to the quarter-finals.

Despite the goalless scoreline, it was a lively game with 34 shots across the 90 minutes and added time, and there was no shortage of attacking action.

The best chance of the opening 45 minutes came when Egypt’s Omar Marmoush smashed the ball off the crossbar from distance. After the break, it took a great save to deny Sebastian Haller’s header in the second period, while Aston Villa’s Trezeguet came close after his introduction.

In added time, Ibrahim Sangare’s curled shot from distance was saved by Abou Gabal, and again it was Trezeguet who came closest for the eventual winners, with three shots in the second 15-minute half.

Egypt will now play Morocco in the quarter-finals on Sunday at 4pm, at the Ahmadou Ahidjo Stadium.

What next for Bailly?

The centre-back returned to the starting line-up after missing Ivory Coast’s last group game against Algeria with a head injury. The United No.3 was excellent and helped keep Salah and Co quiet throughout the game.

However, Ivory Coast’s elimination means he is expected to return to Manchester in time for the Red Devils’ next game, which comes on 4 February at home to Middlesbrough in the FA Cup fourth round.