In their opening match of the 2026 Maurice Revello Tournament on Monday, June 1st in France, the Ivory Coast U23 Elephants delivered a spectacular performance against Japan (3-3). While victory eluded the Ivorians late in the game, the evening was illuminated by Zabi Patrick's outstanding display. The Stade de Reims midfielder, true to his nickname "Zabi the Magician," was deservedly named man of the match.

A conductor named "Zabi the Magician"

Selected by coach Mamadou Doumbia, the young Reims prodigy played the entire match, establishing himself as the true leader of the Ivorian midfield. Thanks to his exceptional vision, remarkable technical skill, and an innate ability to break through the Japanese lines, he dictated the tempo of his team from start to finish.

From start to finish: an anthology-worthy goal

After a clever opening goal from Jocelin Ta Bi from a direct corner (20th minute), Ivory Coast doubled their lead immediately after the restart (46th minute) thanks to the genius of their number 10.

Inspired, Zabi Patrick initiated the attack from the center circle, brought the ball upfield, and laid it off to Malick Yalcouyé on the left wing. Continuing his run, he received the ball again just outside the box and unleashed a clinical, low, curling shot with his right foot. The Japanese goalkeeper, H. Ogawa, was helpless: Ivory Coast led 2-0.

Match stat: Omnipresent, the Reims player displayed an impressive work rate. While he attempted four shots (one on target), he particularly distinguished himself with his accuracy, boasting a 55% pass completion rate across all his touches, while also delivering a brilliant assist.

Decisive playmaker and undisputed leader

While the Elephants seemed serene, a defensive lapse benefited Japan's H. Asada, who scored a lightning-fast brace in two minutes (61st, 62nd) to level the score.

This was the moment Zabi Patrick chose to don his savior's cape. In the 75th minute, under pressure from the opposing defense in his own half, the Ivorian midfielder escaped the pressure with class and delivered a pinpoint 40-meter pass to Koné Cheick Oumar. The AS Monaco striker, who had just come on as a substitute, didn't falter and restored his team's lead (3-2).

Heading to Venezuela

Unfortunately for the Ivory Coast U23s, Japan snatched a draw in the 86th minute (3-3), depriving Ivory Coast of a victory that seemed assured.

Despite the draw, Mamadou Doumbia can be pleased to have found the leader of his midfield. Zabi Patrick and his teammates will need to bounce back quickly on June 3 against Venezuela , before facing Portugal on June 4 and concluding the group stage against Canada on June 8 .