21/1/2006

A controversial penalty played by Didier Drogba gave the Ivory Coast a 1-0 win over Morocco in a Group-B match in the African Cup of Nations on Saturday.

The Elephants were awarded the penalty when Walid Regragui was judged to have dragged down Drogba in the 37th minute. But television replays show that the initial contact was made outside the area.

Drogba's goal stung the Moroccans into seeking an equaliser but the Ivorian defence marshaled by Kolo Toure and Emmanuel Eboue, held firm.

Next up for the Ivory Coast is Libya on Tuesday while Morocco will face host Egypt on the same day. The Ivory Coast and Egypt, who beat Libya 3-0 in their opening game have three points in Group-A.