Ivory Coast Defeats Japan, 2-1

The Ivory Coast recovered from an early setback, scoring two second-half goals in the space of 100 seconds to earn a 2-1 win over Japan in Group C in Recife, Saturday night.

Japan took the lead in the 16th minute on midfielder Keisuke Honda’s fine strike from 15 yards. The Japanese then defended comfortably for the rest of the half against a disjointed Ivorian attack.

Things changed in the second half, following the entrance of the veteran forward Didier Drogba in the 62nd minute. Two minutes later, the Ivory Coast tied the score, when Wilfried Bony headed home right back Serge Aurier’s cross.

Two minutes after that, the Ivorians took the lead when another Aurier cross was met by Gervinho, whose low header went between the near post and Japan keeper Eiji Kawashima.

Japan flagged after that and the Ivorians were content to hold onto their advantage and take the 3 points.

Ivory Coast will play Colombia in Brasilia on Thursday, June 19, while Japan plays Greece in Natal. Full story »