Yamoussoukro FC defeat champions ASEC on Ligue 1 debut

Yamoussoukro FC have started life in Ivory Coast’s top flight with three points and a major scalp, defeating defending champions ASEC Mimosas on their first Ligue 1 appearance. The promoted club’s victory gives them an ideal opening to the 2026-27 campaign, while ASEC must respond after losing on the first matchday.

Doumbia Mory scored the only goal in the 33rd minute as Yamoussoukro secured a 1-0 win at the Charles Konan Banny Stadium on Saturday. ASEC enjoyed more of the ball and increased their attacking pressure after the interval, but the hosts maintained their defensive organisation and protected their advantage until the final whistle.

The result is a significant early setback for ASEC, who entered the fixture with an inconsistent run behind them: defeats by Medeama and Olympique Sport d’Abobo, a draw with Zoman, and victories over San-Pédro and ISCA. Yamoussoukro, meanwhile, have marked their arrival in the elite with an immediate win over the reigning champions. After the opening round, the new Ligue 1 side can build from three points, while ASEC will seek to prevent the loss from shaping their early season.