Kings of Africa

Ivory Coast won the Africa Cup of Nations for the first time in 23 years last night as they edged Ghana 9-8 on penalties following a goalless draw after extra time in the final at Estadio de Bata.

Goalkeeper Boubacar Barry converted the decisive spot kick to ensure a first title since Ivory Coast last beat Ghana in similar circumstances in 1992.

It took a total of 22 kicks to settle the outcome after the Ivorians had missed their first two attempts.

Victory for the Ivory Coast also handed coach Herve Renard the distinction of becoming the first coach to win the Nations Cup with different countries after his success with Zambia in 2012, when they edged the Ivorians in a shootout. It was Ivory Coast's second title since their only previous win in 1992, when they also locked horns with Ghana and trampled the Black Stars 11-10 on penalties in a marathon shootout.