Well everybody, that is that for the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations. Thank you for joining us over the past few weeks and for your contributions.
Bravo Côte d'Ivoire!
Post update
Steve Crossman
BBC Sport in Bata
"Herve Renard, having made history, having lifted two Afcon titles, is right in the melee there. What does that say about him? He has made a life for himself as one of the top coaches in African football."
IVORY COAST WIN THE CUP OF NATIONS
Manchester City midfielder Yaya Toure holds the trophy aloft - cue ticker tape and the squad jumping up and down on the platform. Now for the wideshot photo in front of a big board.
Join the debate at #bbcafcon2015
Fissuh H Kelelom: This was the last chance for many of Ivory Coast first team members. Ghanians can still win next Afcon. They are Young team.
IVORY COAST WIN THE CUP OF NATIONS
ReutersCopyright: Reuters
But Ivory Coast end 23 years of hurt. Look, they will surely be disappointed by their display over 120 minutes, but they hung on in there and defended well.
The trophy is about to be presented.
IVORY COAST WIN THE CUP OF NATIONS
Ghana's Andre Ayew is coach Avram Grant's 'John Terry' for 2015. He tries to console the teary forward as he goes up to collect his losers' medal.
It is now 33 years and counting for the Black Stars...
IVORY COAST WIN THE CUP OF NATIONS
Guess who got the player of the tournament award? Ghana's Christian Atsu.
Right at this moment, that's like discovering the kettle still works after the rest of the house has burned down.
Join the debate at #bbcafcon2015
Thomas Dolfi: Boubacar 'Copa' Barry! It's his moment of glory & no-one else's! The veteran GK tucks away his pen to gain national hero status.
ReutersCopyright: Reuters
IVORY COAST WIN THE CUP OF NATIONS
Ghana's Andre Ayew is inconsolable. Meanwhile, Ivory Coast coach Herve Renard has ditched the white shirt and gone topless - we can see his pristine white undies though. I mean, really!!
Post update
Matthew Kenyon
BBC Sport in Bata
"Neither side deserved to win this final on the basis of a better performance than the other team. It was a very poor final really. Andre Ayew has been in tears after that wining penalty. A nice touch when I saw Renard go over and put an arm round Jordan Ayew, who he coached at Sochaux."
IVORY COAST WIN THE CUP OF NATIONS
Spare a thought for Avram Grant. Another loss in a final and another loss in a penalty shootout. It appeared it would be his and Ghana's day when Ivory Coast missed those early kicks, but alas, no.
Join the debate at #bbcafcon2015
Tim Elgar: Poor old Ghana keeper. Epic penalty shoot out, congrats Ivory Coast
Michael Finnie: Ghana composed themselves amazingly and the amateur dramatics of CIV were a performance that cast a shadow on the fixture.
Boubacar Barry, aged 35, who replaced regular injured keeper Sylvain Ghobouo for the final is the hero for The Elephants. After scoring he runs over to the track and once again collapses. But he's back up and has joined his Ivorian team-mates in celebration.
Post update
Ivory Coast win Africa Cup of Nations
Matthew Kenyon
BBC Sport in Bata
"It is a triumph for Ivory Coast boss Herve Renard who has developed this team with great skill. It is a bitter, bitter moment for Ghana, who are walking disconsolate."
BreakingBREAKING NEWS
IVORY COAST WIN THE AFRICA CUP OF NATIONS
GOAL
Ivory Coast 9-8 Ghana
HE'S DONE IT! Boubacar Barry is the hero for Ivory Coast. He scores the winning penalty, after making a crucial save, by striking his effort high past Razak Braimah.
Post update
Barry is getting the special spray, but had got up and been kissed by Yaya Toure. What scenes!
MISSED PENALTY
Ivory Coast 8-8 Ghana
Ghana keeper Braimah steps up and... his kick is saved by Barry. Now Barry can't get up - again.
GOAL
Ivory Coast 8-8 Ghana
Serey Die, who looked a tad bit nervous, slots his effort in.
GOAL
Ivory Coast 7-8 Ghana
Is it goodnight John Boye? No. The Black Star scores, but Barry did get a hand to it.
GOAL
Ivory Coast 7-7 Ghana
Bailly, who's been on the floor a lot, has enough energy to slot his kick past Braimah. Good accuracy.
GOAL
Ivory Coast 6-7 Ghana
Rahman slides it past Barry. How are the nerves?
GOAL
Ivory Coast 6-6 Ghana
If anyone can Kanon can (I've used that already) - another cool effort high past Braimah.
GOAL
Ivory Coast 5-6 Ghana
Very cool from Afful - high past Barry, who went the wrong way.
GOAL
Ivory Coast 5-5 Ghana
Kolo Toure steps up and... scores with a bullet of a kick. That's his last kick in international football.
GOAL
Ivory Coast 4-5 Ghana
Badu just about sneaks it is. Barry got a hand to it. Not another 11-10?
GOAL
Ivory Coast 4-4 Ghana
A veteran in these situations, Kalou slots into the bottom corner.
GOAL
Ivory Coast 3-4 Ghana
Mensah passes this mental challenge and it's advantage Ghana in sudden death.
GOAL
Ivory Coast 3-3 Ghana
This could be it... and... Yaya Toure levels. He wasn't going to miss was he?
GOAL
Ivory Coast 2-3 Ghana
Andre Ayew slots his effort past Barry. Sends him the wrong way.
GOAL
Ivory Coast 2-2 Ghana
Absolutely leathers it. Doumbia smashes his spot-kick past Braimah. Ivory Coast keeper Barry appears to have cramp. What next?
MISSED PENALTY
Ivory Coast 1-2 Ghana
Ghana's Acheampong strikes his effort miles wide - it's turned in the space of a few kicks.
GOAL
Ivory Coast 1-2 Ghana
Serge Aurier comes across as a confident fellow and strikes his spot-kick high past Braimah.
MISSED PENALTY
Ivory Coast 0-2 Ghana
A lifeline for The Elephants. Barry dives to his right and saves from Acquah.
MISSED PENALTY
Ivory Coast 0-2 Ghana
It's all going Pete Tong for the Ivorians. Tallo strikes his effort horribly wide.
GOAL
Ivory Coast 0-2 Ghana
He didn't look confident on approach, but Jordan Ayew strokes his effort past Barry.
MISSED PENALTY
Ivory Coast 0-1 Ghana
Bony's effort crashes off the bar. Wow!
GOAL
Ivory Coast 0-1 Ghana
Mubarak fires past Barry. Cool as you like.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Ghana's Mubarak will take the first penalty. Boubacar Barry is ready.
PENALTIES
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Now, we all remember when these two competed in a penalty shoot-out in the 1992 final? There were 24 penalties taken and 21 were scored. Ivory Coast won that day.
Who's your money on today?
Join the debate at #bbcafcon2015
Flossy Hills: "Its like all afcon finals end in penalties, the next event, teams should start with that."
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Matthew Kenyon
BBC Sport in Bata
"They were simply too nervous about losing this final from a mistake and neither side went for it. It was cagey."
PENALTIES
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
That's right spot-kick fans.
SUBSTITUTIONS
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Gadji Tallo is on for Gervinho and Emmanuel Agyemang is on for Asamoah Gyan. Cripes! Big changes by the coaches.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Let's not beat about the bush - Ivory Coast have disappointed today. Ghana deserve this on points.
Join the debate at #bbcafcon2015
Cafc: Has there been a worse major final than this? I'm struggling to think of one. Any suggestions?
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Three minutes until penners.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Steve Crossman
BBC Sport in Bata
"Since going to Germany, Salomon Kalou has looked every bit the player who sometimes lit up the Premier League at Chelsea. He is the type if player who could just grab something from nothing and I think he is definitely the player to make an impact."
SUBSTITUTIONS
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Ivory Coast bring on Salomon Kalou for Siaka Tiene, while Ghana's Frank Acheampong is on for Christian Atsu.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Ghana's Asamoah Gyan fancies this free-kick from 30 yards, but takes out Ivory Coast's Eric Bailly with his effort, who has already been on the deck in this match.
Join the debate at #bbcafcon2015
Chris Phethean: I feel this game could well still be 0-0 even after penalties...
Ghost Goal: At this stage I would prefer drawing of lots on the pitch to penalties.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Jordan Ayew, who hasn't been on long, almost gets his shot away only to be denied by Kolo Toure after brother Yaya's error landed Ivory Coast in trouble.
Join the debate at #bbcafcon2015
Mungo Russell: City fans better hope Yaya doesn't bring this form back to the Etihad, or the title's won already.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Matthew Kenyon
BBC Sport in Bata
"That is the first time I have heard the Ghana fans get involved and engaged in this game and we have had 107 minutes of action. That was a great opportunity for Ghana, although the set-piece afterwards was disappointing."
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Good Ivorian blocking, ends with 'block of the match' by Eric Bailly to deny Asamoah Gyan from 20 yards. The resulting corner comes to nothing.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
We are back under way.
EXTRA-TIME HALF-TIME
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
No more needs to be said. I'm guessing coaches Herve Renard and Avram Grant are drawing up their penalty-takers list.
AFPCopyright: AFP
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Steve Crossman
BBC Sport in Bata
"That corner really summed up Yaya Toure in this final, although it is not just him it is everyone else too."
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
But yet again Yaya Toure finds the Ghana keeper Razak Braimah. Now Ghana have a free-kick at the other end.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Ivory Coast having a nice little silver spell, not quite golden. They have a corner...
"The Ghana fans have been very critical of Jordan Ayew at this tournament. He didn't exactly silence his critics with that penalty in the semi-final because he didn't do too much otherwise, but he will be their hero if he scores in extra-time."
GHANA SUBSTITUTION
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Kwasi Appiah will not have to take a penalty, but Jordan Ayew might - the Lorient player comes on.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Ivory Coast's Yaya Toure hasn't had the best of games - he must be dreaming of being back in east Manchester. He's just overplayed a simple pass for Serge Aurier.
Get ready...
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Ghana's attack appear to have more juice in the tank than Ivory Coast's, who have disappointed so far.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Ghana's Christian Atsu - one of the better performers inside the Estadio de Bata - tries something spectacular at the edge of the area, but gets his bearings a little wrong.
EXTRA TIME
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Here we go - another 30 minutes.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Both Ivory Coast captain Yaya Toure and Ghana skipper Asamoah Gyan looked like they're weren't too bothered which direction they wanted to run towards at the coin toss. Pele's gone AWOL by the way. He'll be back for extra-time, surely.
Keith Webster: Worst game of football, thought the point was some team wants to win.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Steve Crossman
BBC Sport in Bata
"Because it is a final I think there is every reason to expect we are going to see a goal before the end of extra-time. There will be changes, disruptions and fatigue and all of that could lead to mistakes and that could lead to goals."
FULL-TIME
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
We are going into extra-time.
AFPCopyright: AFP
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Steve Crossman
BBC Sport in Bata
"It is the two goalkeepers who look the most likely to cause problems for their team. The defences have been excellent but both keepers have had a couple of fluttery moments."
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
I almost jumped out of my seat. Almost. Serge Aurier fires in a low cross, keeper Razak Braimah gets his hands to it and Ghana somehow clear it before Doumbia Seydou can pounce. We have three minutes of stoppage.
Join the debate at #bbcafcon2015
Chris Painter: If Yaya Toure played like this for Man City, they'd ship him out to the Championship on loan.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Wakasu Mubarak takes it and... it takes two deflections before going out of play. That must mean a goal-kick- which is precisely what the Gambia referee declared.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Ghana have a free-kick less than 25 yards from goal. Time to be a hero...
Join the debate at #bbcafcon2015
Wale Ibraheem: Time is running out for this Golden generation of Ivorian players. It will be a shame if they fail win this tournament.
AFPCopyright: AFP
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Matthew Kenyon
BBC Sport in Bata
"They all looked quite stern in the dignitaries box, I wouldn't say bored, that would be hash, but they didn't really look very involved in the game, but then I don't really think anyone is."
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
They've just shown a shot of Pele, who looks a little bored, and Fifa president Sepp Blatter, who has a rigid smile.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Wilfried Bony, who has been very quiet in this match, puts Evian defender Jonathan Mensah under pressure as a cross comes into the Ghana area. It should have been a corner, but isn't.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Ivory Coast full-back Serge Aurier finally manages to deliver the ball into the area, but couldn't find a team-mate. There are 10 minutes remaining.
Join the debate at #bbcafcon2015
Thomas Dolfi: Ivory Coast need to realise it's up to them to take the game to Ghana! No forward initiative being shown; Elephants are risking.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Siaka Tiene floats it into the area forcing Ghana keeper Razak Braimah to come out to punch it clear. Dangerous.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Yaya Toure wins a free-kick for Ivory Coast about 25 yards from goal and on the right of the area.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Steve Crossman
BBC Sport
"Every time you have a successful attack, if you don't convert it you leave yourself vulnerable at the other end. These two teams are breaking remarkably quickly but that is why the tempo has been like it has been, so that they are not giving away these opportunities to break like that."
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Christian Atsu bursts down the right and almost squares the ball to the feet of Asamoah Gyan, but instead it is played behind the ex-Sunderland striker. As predicted, it is picking up with 20 minutes of normal time remaining.
Join the debate at #bbcafcon2015
David Gibbon: Yaya Toure needs to realise he's the main man here! Ala Steve Gerrard!!!
CLOSE!
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Afriyie Acquah takes charge and floats - no pun intended - his kick on to the head of John Boye, who nods the ball less than a foot wide.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Ghana have another free-kick from a deep position....
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Matthew Kenyon
BBC Sport in Bata
"This will be very interesting to see how Doumbia gets on. He was a prolific scorer for CSKA Moscow, he is a more powerful player than Max Gradel and we will see if that makes a difference in attack."
SUBSTITUTION
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Ex-Leeds player Max Gradel is coming off and forward Doumbia Seydou of Roma is coming on.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
We have an imminent Ivory Coast substitution coming up.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
After all that mini-drama, Ivory Coast have a corner at the other end. And par for the course, Yaya Toure curls his kick into the hands of Razak Braimah.
AFPCopyright: AFP
Join the debate at #bbcafcon2015
Alex Haworth: Someone let me know when the penalty shootout is about to start. I'll watch that.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Matthew Kenyon
BBC Sport in Bata
"John Boye has got away with that, very much so. If the referee had seen that he would have been sent off."
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Now then. Ghana's John Boye appeared to headbutt Eric Bailly - the referee told Bailly to get up.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Ivory Coast mount a semi-attack. Right-back Serge Aurier, who has been somewhat absent, finds space down the flank but fails to breach the box with his cross. Poor.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
BBC World Service journalist Farayi Mungazi: It's more about avoiding mistakes than creating a match-winning move for both teams at the moment.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
A fast break from Ghana sees Christian Atsu find Asamoah Gyan, who blazes his shot over the bar from 20 yards. He should have done better, but at least the Black Stars have started the second half on the front foot.
Join the debate at #bbcafcon2015
Demidinho: If the transfer window was still open, I'd tell my scout to not bother compiling stats on Yaya Toure. Been absolutely dire
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
It doesn't even beat the first man at the near post. Parma midfielder Afriye Acquah then launches the ball into the Bata night sky - unintentionally.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Ghana win a corner - their first of the game,
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Ivory Coast's Gervinho tries to wriggle his way into the area, but is prevented from doing so. The Roma winger was a strong presence in the second half of the semi-final against DR Congo. Let's see what he can over the few minutes...
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images
KICK-OFF
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
We are back under way.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
The teams are coming back out. At the same time. Ivory Coast coach Herve Renard is smiling - his gnashers as white as his crisp shirt.
Ready?
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Steve Crossman
BBC Sport in Bata
"If Ghana continue to defend like they have then player of the tournament must surely go to one of their defenders. Their goalkeeper has had next to nothing to do all tournament."
Join the debate at #bbcafcon2015
ReutersCopyright: Reuters
This Ivory Coast fan sums up how quite a few of us feel at the moment. What do you think will happen in the second half?
James Earl Kiawoin: A game of anonymity: Toure, Bony, Gyan all missing in action.
Cyprian Kaluma: I hope Ghana wins this for Gyan. A true fighter who never gives up.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Matthew Kenyon
BBC Sport in Bata
"A very low key first half, we knew it might be like this and at the moment I fancy penalties all the way. There has been just one moment of excitement in a rather dull 45 minutes of the Africa Cup of Nations final."
HALF-TIME
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
ReutersCopyright: Reuters
There you go. Ivory Coast began well, then Ghana had a spell - then both teams took a break for the final 15 minutes of the half. Has the look of penalties at the moment, doesn't it? They had 21 back in the 1992 final.
INJURY TIME
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
One added minute.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Steve Crossman
BBC Sport in Bata
"I think the rain coming down can only be the result of one neutral in the stadium saying 'this can't get any worse'."
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
It is a hot evening in Estadio de Bata, so it's not been a high-intensity workout from either team as yet. We've seen at this tournament teams go up the gears in the final 20 minutes. It's also raining now.
Join the debate at #bbcafcon2015
XP: Ghana is a strong team. But i see the Ivorians taking this by a 1 goal to nil, after the end of 120mins
It is swung in, but collected by Boubacar Barry - aged 35 - he's in goal instead of Sylvain Gbohouo, who has a thigh injury.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Ghana forward Andre Ayew steals into the area on the left, but his attempted cross for Asamoah Gyan comes off the near post.
The Black Stars are shining brightly. They have a free-kick...
Join the debate at #bbcafcon2015
obasi chidi: Today will determine who the crown fit in Africa,winner takes it all, loser stands small
Quoting a bit of Abba there obasi?
AFPCopyright: AFP
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
That's another effort on goal from Ivory Coast. It actually came off Ghana's Harrison Afful, whose clearance sliced off his leg and flew into the hands of his team-mate Razak Braimah - I'd like to see Dynamo try that trick.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Steve Crossman
BBC Sport in Bata
"I think we have been a bit unlucky because the two or three times we have the possibility of this game kicking on and becoming exciting it comes immediately before an injury and that stops play and we have to start again."
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
He got that all wrong. Wilfried Kanon plays the ball to Manchester City's Wilfried Bony, who turns brilliantly on the edge of the area, but scuffs his shot.
That's a 6.0 for artistic value, but 4.8 for technical merit.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
At the moment Ghana have 57% of the possession - they are looking a lot more settled. But you can tell The Elephants are holding back for a swift counter...
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Great to hear from Festus.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Steve Crossman
BBC Sport in Bata
"That was an amazing effort. He is very, very capable from those positions and on this occasion he was very unlucky."
Join the debate at #bbcafcon2015
Festus Abrah-Yeboah: Grant's misfortunes occurred in Europe; this is the African Cup of Nations. The story will be different!
APCopyright: AP
HITS THE WOODWORK!
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
More like smashes the woodwork. Everton's on loan player from Chelsea, Christian Atsu, lets fly from 25 yards and sees his effort crash off the keeper's left-hand post.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Ghana on the attack. Christian Atsu brilliantly brings down a ball into the area before he is brilliantly pickpocketed by Eric Bailly. That will hearten the Black Stars support.
Join the debate at #bbcafcon2015
Mamadi Sirleaf: Serge Aurier is a player to watch, his pace and eye linking passes from the right will be a constant threat to the Ghanaians.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Just had an email from my BBC colleague Nick Cavell, who has been covering the tournament out in Equatorial Guinea.
He says the national TV station are not showing the final - "they had a replay of the hosts v Burkina Faso and have now switched to a music programme".
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Matthew Kenyon
BBC Sport in Bata
"Ghana simply gave the ball away and it fell right to Gervinho, he spotted Gradel but his shot was always falling away from the far post, but a nervous moment in the Ghana defence."
AFPCopyright: AFP
CLOSE!
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Former Leeds player Max Gradel is inches away from giving Ivory Coast the lead as his humdinger of an effort from 18 yards flies over the bar.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Steve Crossman
BBC Sport in Bata
"That looked very painful indeed. Someone would call that a reducer, but they did not reduce him too much because he took the free-kick."
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
It's Yaya Toure again involved in the next attack. His free-kick from 25 yard curls over the wall but is well held by Razak Braimah in the Ghana goal. Moments later, Ivorian Serey Die catches Mubarak Wakaso in very much the 'central Africa region'. That could have been deemed a red card offence.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Ivory Coast captain Yaya Toure stumbles on the edge of the area under a challenge, before falling in the area. Nothing in it says Gambia ref Bakary Papa Gassama. But again, The Elephants threaten.
Join the debate at #bbcafcon2015
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
@lukevenn11Copyright: @lukevenn11
Luke Venn: Like the postman I always deliver.
Earlier today Luke tweeted in to let our colleagues on the Premier League football live page all about his plans for a Ghanaian feast this evening. The boy's done good.
Ivory Coast have dominated this opening period. They have such a strong and pacy attack. Ghana need to get the ball to Andre Ayew and Asamoah Gyan - it will be interesting to see how fit Gyan is after his abdominal injury.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Matthew Kenyon
BBC Sport in Bata
"Gervinho looks like he is up for this game, it looks like he will be that influential player he was in the group stages."
Join the debate at #bbcafcon2015
Feyera Aga Hirpa: The clash of the two best teams of the continent, this is African Cup of Nations Final! Bring it on
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Ivory Coast winger/forward Gervinho seems to have one thing on his mind tonight - get the ball and run. He just breezed past two Ghana players before John Boye stole the ball from him. No Waltons jokes tonight.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Steve Crossman
BBC Sport in Bata
"Not one of these Black Stars players were born when Ghana were last crowned Africa Cup of Nations champions. Avram Grant is going to need to rectify a rotten record in finals if he is to lead them to victory."
Peter Mesias Kambala: Renard is used to winning finals, Avram Grant is not- he's probably the only one who won't be hurt if Ghana lose this final.
The anthems
Ivory Coast v Ghana (19:00 GMT)
The anthems are being blasted out. First is the Ivory Coast anthem "L'Abidjanaise", followed by Ghana's "God Bless Our Homeland Ghana".
Glass half empty
Ivory Coast v Ghana (19:00 GMT)
Now looking about Estadio de Bata - it doesn't look very full. There is the fact that Equatorial Guinea were a late replacements as hosts after Morocco were ditched because of their worries over Ebola. Hmmm...
Teams are out
Ivory Coast v Ghana (19:00 GMT)
Kwesi AppiahCopyright: Kwesi Appiah
Kwesi AppiahCopyright: Kwesi Appiah
The teams are coming out on to the pitch...
Join the debate at #bbcafcon2015
Thomas Dolfi: "I fancy Ghana to pull a fast one over the fancied Ivory Coast tonight! The Elephants will be ambushed by their opponents' pace.
Tournament top scorers
Ivory Coast v Ghana (19:00 GMT)
Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images
We are a little more than 10 minutes away from kick-off. One of these guys could walk away with the Cup of Nations Golden Boot? Who has impressed you? #bbcafcon2015
Post update
Ivory Coast v Ghana (19:00 GMT)
Piers Edwards
BBC Africa sport
BBCCopyright: BBC
"More security personnel than fans at Estadio de Bata earlier this afternoon. Equatorial Guinea/CAF intent on avoiding Thursday's scenes."
Kanoute on the finalists
Ivory Coast v Ghana (19:00 GMT)
Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images
Back to the action coming up, BBC World Service caught up with former Mali and West Ham forward Frederic Kanoute, who believes the best two teams of the competition are contesting the final:
"I would add maybe Algeria, they had a tough group so anyone of that Algerian group could go through. Ghana deserved to go through - they were very serious all the way. And of course Ivory Coast got stronger and stronger as the tournament went along so I think we have the best two teams in the end."
Live Reporting
Saj Chowdhury
All times stated are UK
Get involved
IVORY COAST WIN THE CUP OF NATIONS
Well everybody, that is that for the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations. Thank you for joining us over the past few weeks and for your contributions.
Bravo Côte d'Ivoire!
Post update
Steve Crossman
BBC Sport in Bata
"Herve Renard, having made history, having lifted two Afcon titles, is right in the melee there. What does that say about him? He has made a life for himself as one of the top coaches in African football."
IVORY COAST WIN THE CUP OF NATIONS
Manchester City midfielder Yaya Toure holds the trophy aloft - cue ticker tape and the squad jumping up and down on the platform. Now for the wideshot photo in front of a big board.
Join the debate at #bbcafcon2015
Fissuh H Kelelom: This was the last chance for many of Ivory Coast first team members. Ghanians can still win next Afcon. They are Young team.
IVORY COAST WIN THE CUP OF NATIONS
But Ivory Coast end 23 years of hurt. Look, they will surely be disappointed by their display over 120 minutes, but they hung on in there and defended well.
The trophy is about to be presented.
IVORY COAST WIN THE CUP OF NATIONS
Ghana's Andre Ayew is coach Avram Grant's 'John Terry' for 2015. He tries to console the teary forward as he goes up to collect his losers' medal.
It is now 33 years and counting for the Black Stars...
IVORY COAST WIN THE CUP OF NATIONS
Guess who got the player of the tournament award? Ghana's Christian Atsu.
Right at this moment, that's like discovering the kettle still works after the rest of the house has burned down.
Join the debate at #bbcafcon2015
Thomas Dolfi: Boubacar 'Copa' Barry! It's his moment of glory & no-one else's! The veteran GK tucks away his pen to gain national hero status.
IVORY COAST WIN THE CUP OF NATIONS
Ghana's Andre Ayew is inconsolable. Meanwhile, Ivory Coast coach Herve Renard has ditched the white shirt and gone topless - we can see his pristine white undies though. I mean, really!!
Post update
Matthew Kenyon
BBC Sport in Bata
"Neither side deserved to win this final on the basis of a better performance than the other team. It was a very poor final really. Andre Ayew has been in tears after that wining penalty. A nice touch when I saw Renard go over and put an arm round Jordan Ayew, who he coached at Sochaux."
IVORY COAST WIN THE CUP OF NATIONS
Spare a thought for Avram Grant. Another loss in a final and another loss in a penalty shootout. It appeared it would be his and Ghana's day when Ivory Coast missed those early kicks, but alas, no.
Join the debate at #bbcafcon2015
Tim Elgar: Poor old Ghana keeper. Epic penalty shoot out, congrats Ivory Coast
Michael Finnie: Ghana composed themselves amazingly and the amateur dramatics of CIV were a performance that cast a shadow on the fixture.
Join the debate at #bbcafcon2015
Match of the Day presenter Gary Lineker: And the winner for best penalty shoot-out is the #AFCON final. Congratulations to the Ivory Coast.
IVORY COAST WIN THE CUP OF NATIONS
Boubacar Barry, aged 35, who replaced regular injured keeper Sylvain Ghobouo for the final is the hero for The Elephants. After scoring he runs over to the track and once again collapses. But he's back up and has joined his Ivorian team-mates in celebration.
Post update
Ivory Coast win Africa Cup of Nations
Matthew Kenyon
BBC Sport in Bata
"It is a triumph for Ivory Coast boss Herve Renard who has developed this team with great skill. It is a bitter, bitter moment for Ghana, who are walking disconsolate."
BreakingBREAKING NEWS
IVORY COAST WIN THE AFRICA CUP OF NATIONS
GOAL
Ivory Coast 9-8 Ghana
HE'S DONE IT! Boubacar Barry is the hero for Ivory Coast. He scores the winning penalty, after making a crucial save, by striking his effort high past Razak Braimah.
Post update
Barry is getting the special spray, but had got up and been kissed by Yaya Toure. What scenes!
MISSED PENALTY
Ivory Coast 8-8 Ghana
Ghana keeper Braimah steps up and... his kick is saved by Barry. Now Barry can't get up - again.
GOAL
Ivory Coast 8-8 Ghana
Serey Die, who looked a tad bit nervous, slots his effort in.
GOAL
Ivory Coast 7-8 Ghana
Is it goodnight John Boye? No. The Black Star scores, but Barry did get a hand to it.
GOAL
Ivory Coast 7-7 Ghana
Bailly, who's been on the floor a lot, has enough energy to slot his kick past Braimah. Good accuracy.
GOAL
Ivory Coast 6-7 Ghana
Rahman slides it past Barry. How are the nerves?
GOAL
Ivory Coast 6-6 Ghana
If anyone can Kanon can (I've used that already) - another cool effort high past Braimah.
GOAL
Ivory Coast 5-6 Ghana
Very cool from Afful - high past Barry, who went the wrong way.
GOAL
Ivory Coast 5-5 Ghana
Kolo Toure steps up and... scores with a bullet of a kick. That's his last kick in international football.
GOAL
Ivory Coast 4-5 Ghana
Badu just about sneaks it is. Barry got a hand to it. Not another 11-10?
GOAL
Ivory Coast 4-4 Ghana
A veteran in these situations, Kalou slots into the bottom corner.
GOAL
Ivory Coast 3-4 Ghana
Mensah passes this mental challenge and it's advantage Ghana in sudden death.
GOAL
Ivory Coast 3-3 Ghana
This could be it... and... Yaya Toure levels. He wasn't going to miss was he?
GOAL
Ivory Coast 2-3 Ghana
Andre Ayew slots his effort past Barry. Sends him the wrong way.
GOAL
Ivory Coast 2-2 Ghana
Absolutely leathers it. Doumbia smashes his spot-kick past Braimah. Ivory Coast keeper Barry appears to have cramp. What next?
MISSED PENALTY
Ivory Coast 1-2 Ghana
Ghana's Acheampong strikes his effort miles wide - it's turned in the space of a few kicks.
GOAL
Ivory Coast 1-2 Ghana
Serge Aurier comes across as a confident fellow and strikes his spot-kick high past Braimah.
MISSED PENALTY
Ivory Coast 0-2 Ghana
A lifeline for The Elephants. Barry dives to his right and saves from Acquah.
MISSED PENALTY
Ivory Coast 0-2 Ghana
It's all going Pete Tong for the Ivorians. Tallo strikes his effort horribly wide.
GOAL
Ivory Coast 0-2 Ghana
He didn't look confident on approach, but Jordan Ayew strokes his effort past Barry.
MISSED PENALTY
Ivory Coast 0-1 Ghana
Bony's effort crashes off the bar. Wow!
GOAL
Ivory Coast 0-1 Ghana
Mubarak fires past Barry. Cool as you like.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Ghana's Mubarak will take the first penalty. Boubacar Barry is ready.
PENALTIES
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Now, we all remember when these two competed in a penalty shoot-out in the 1992 final? There were 24 penalties taken and 21 were scored. Ivory Coast won that day.
Who's your money on today?
Join the debate at #bbcafcon2015
Flossy Hills: "Its like all afcon finals end in penalties, the next event, teams should start with that."
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Matthew Kenyon
BBC Sport in Bata
"They were simply too nervous about losing this final from a mistake and neither side went for it. It was cagey."
PENALTIES
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
That's right spot-kick fans.
SUBSTITUTIONS
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Gadji Tallo is on for Gervinho and Emmanuel Agyemang is on for Asamoah Gyan. Cripes! Big changes by the coaches.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Let's not beat about the bush - Ivory Coast have disappointed today. Ghana deserve this on points.
Join the debate at #bbcafcon2015
Cafc: Has there been a worse major final than this? I'm struggling to think of one. Any suggestions?
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Three minutes until penners.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Steve Crossman
BBC Sport in Bata
"Since going to Germany, Salomon Kalou has looked every bit the player who sometimes lit up the Premier League at Chelsea. He is the type if player who could just grab something from nothing and I think he is definitely the player to make an impact."
SUBSTITUTIONS
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Ivory Coast bring on Salomon Kalou for Siaka Tiene, while Ghana's Frank Acheampong is on for Christian Atsu.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Ghana's Asamoah Gyan fancies this free-kick from 30 yards, but takes out Ivory Coast's Eric Bailly with his effort, who has already been on the deck in this match.
Join the debate at #bbcafcon2015
Chris Phethean: I feel this game could well still be 0-0 even after penalties...
Ghost Goal: At this stage I would prefer drawing of lots on the pitch to penalties.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Jordan Ayew, who hasn't been on long, almost gets his shot away only to be denied by Kolo Toure after brother Yaya's error landed Ivory Coast in trouble.
Join the debate at #bbcafcon2015
Mungo Russell: City fans better hope Yaya doesn't bring this form back to the Etihad, or the title's won already.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Matthew Kenyon
BBC Sport in Bata
"That is the first time I have heard the Ghana fans get involved and engaged in this game and we have had 107 minutes of action. That was a great opportunity for Ghana, although the set-piece afterwards was disappointing."
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Good Ivorian blocking, ends with 'block of the match' by Eric Bailly to deny Asamoah Gyan from 20 yards. The resulting corner comes to nothing.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
We are back under way.
EXTRA-TIME HALF-TIME
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
No more needs to be said. I'm guessing coaches Herve Renard and Avram Grant are drawing up their penalty-takers list.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Steve Crossman
BBC Sport in Bata
"That corner really summed up Yaya Toure in this final, although it is not just him it is everyone else too."
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
But yet again Yaya Toure finds the Ghana keeper Razak Braimah. Now Ghana have a free-kick at the other end.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Ivory Coast having a nice little silver spell, not quite golden. They have a corner...
Join the debate at #bbcafcon2015
Festus Abrah-Yeboah: Come Dede Ayew, u need to score to win the Golden Boot.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Steve Crossman
BBC Sport in Bata
"The Ghana fans have been very critical of Jordan Ayew at this tournament. He didn't exactly silence his critics with that penalty in the semi-final because he didn't do too much otherwise, but he will be their hero if he scores in extra-time."
GHANA SUBSTITUTION
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Kwasi Appiah will not have to take a penalty, but Jordan Ayew might - the Lorient player comes on.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Ivory Coast's Yaya Toure hasn't had the best of games - he must be dreaming of being back in east Manchester. He's just overplayed a simple pass for Serge Aurier.
Get ready...
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Ghana's attack appear to have more juice in the tank than Ivory Coast's, who have disappointed so far.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Ghana's Christian Atsu - one of the better performers inside the Estadio de Bata - tries something spectacular at the edge of the area, but gets his bearings a little wrong.
EXTRA TIME
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Here we go - another 30 minutes.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Both Ivory Coast captain Yaya Toure and Ghana skipper Asamoah Gyan looked like they're weren't too bothered which direction they wanted to run towards at the coin toss. Pele's gone AWOL by the way. He'll be back for extra-time, surely.
Join the debate at #bbcafcon2015
CP: Looks like it's gonna be 1992 all over again.
Keith Webster: Worst game of football, thought the point was some team wants to win.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Steve Crossman
BBC Sport in Bata
"Because it is a final I think there is every reason to expect we are going to see a goal before the end of extra-time. There will be changes, disruptions and fatigue and all of that could lead to mistakes and that could lead to goals."
FULL-TIME
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
We are going into extra-time.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Steve Crossman
BBC Sport in Bata
"It is the two goalkeepers who look the most likely to cause problems for their team. The defences have been excellent but both keepers have had a couple of fluttery moments."
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
I almost jumped out of my seat. Almost. Serge Aurier fires in a low cross, keeper Razak Braimah gets his hands to it and Ghana somehow clear it before Doumbia Seydou can pounce. We have three minutes of stoppage.
Join the debate at #bbcafcon2015
Chris Painter: If Yaya Toure played like this for Man City, they'd ship him out to the Championship on loan.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Wakasu Mubarak takes it and... it takes two deflections before going out of play. That must mean a goal-kick- which is precisely what the Gambia referee declared.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Ghana have a free-kick less than 25 yards from goal. Time to be a hero...
Join the debate at #bbcafcon2015
Wale Ibraheem: Time is running out for this Golden generation of Ivorian players. It will be a shame if they fail win this tournament.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Matthew Kenyon
BBC Sport in Bata
"They all looked quite stern in the dignitaries box, I wouldn't say bored, that would be hash, but they didn't really look very involved in the game, but then I don't really think anyone is."
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
They've just shown a shot of Pele, who looks a little bored, and Fifa president Sepp Blatter, who has a rigid smile.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Wilfried Bony, who has been very quiet in this match, puts Evian defender Jonathan Mensah under pressure as a cross comes into the Ghana area. It should have been a corner, but isn't.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Ivory Coast full-back Serge Aurier finally manages to deliver the ball into the area, but couldn't find a team-mate. There are 10 minutes remaining.
Join the debate at #bbcafcon2015
Thomas Dolfi: Ivory Coast need to realise it's up to them to take the game to Ghana! No forward initiative being shown; Elephants are risking.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Siaka Tiene floats it into the area forcing Ghana keeper Razak Braimah to come out to punch it clear. Dangerous.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Yaya Toure wins a free-kick for Ivory Coast about 25 yards from goal and on the right of the area.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Steve Crossman
BBC Sport
"Every time you have a successful attack, if you don't convert it you leave yourself vulnerable at the other end. These two teams are breaking remarkably quickly but that is why the tempo has been like it has been, so that they are not giving away these opportunities to break like that."
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Christian Atsu bursts down the right and almost squares the ball to the feet of Asamoah Gyan, but instead it is played behind the ex-Sunderland striker. As predicted, it is picking up with 20 minutes of normal time remaining.
Join the debate at #bbcafcon2015
David Gibbon: Yaya Toure needs to realise he's the main man here! Ala Steve Gerrard!!!
CLOSE!
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Afriyie Acquah takes charge and floats - no pun intended - his kick on to the head of John Boye, who nods the ball less than a foot wide.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Ghana have another free-kick from a deep position....
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Matthew Kenyon
BBC Sport in Bata
"This will be very interesting to see how Doumbia gets on. He was a prolific scorer for CSKA Moscow, he is a more powerful player than Max Gradel and we will see if that makes a difference in attack."
SUBSTITUTION
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Ex-Leeds player Max Gradel is coming off and forward Doumbia Seydou of Roma is coming on.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
We have an imminent Ivory Coast substitution coming up.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
After all that mini-drama, Ivory Coast have a corner at the other end. And par for the course, Yaya Toure curls his kick into the hands of Razak Braimah.
Join the debate at #bbcafcon2015
Alex Haworth: Someone let me know when the penalty shootout is about to start. I'll watch that.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Matthew Kenyon
BBC Sport in Bata
"John Boye has got away with that, very much so. If the referee had seen that he would have been sent off."
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Now then. Ghana's John Boye appeared to headbutt Eric Bailly - the referee told Bailly to get up.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Ivory Coast mount a semi-attack. Right-back Serge Aurier, who has been somewhat absent, finds space down the flank but fails to breach the box with his cross. Poor.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
BBC World Service journalist Farayi Mungazi: It's more about avoiding mistakes than creating a match-winning move for both teams at the moment.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
A fast break from Ghana sees Christian Atsu find Asamoah Gyan, who blazes his shot over the bar from 20 yards. He should have done better, but at least the Black Stars have started the second half on the front foot.
Join the debate at #bbcafcon2015
Demidinho: If the transfer window was still open, I'd tell my scout to not bother compiling stats on Yaya Toure. Been absolutely dire
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
It doesn't even beat the first man at the near post. Parma midfielder Afriye Acquah then launches the ball into the Bata night sky - unintentionally.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Ghana win a corner - their first of the game,
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Ivory Coast's Gervinho tries to wriggle his way into the area, but is prevented from doing so. The Roma winger was a strong presence in the second half of the semi-final against DR Congo. Let's see what he can over the few minutes...
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
KICK-OFF
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
We are back under way.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
The teams are coming back out. At the same time. Ivory Coast coach Herve Renard is smiling - his gnashers as white as his crisp shirt.
Ready?
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Steve Crossman
BBC Sport in Bata
"If Ghana continue to defend like they have then player of the tournament must surely go to one of their defenders. Their goalkeeper has had next to nothing to do all tournament."
Join the debate at #bbcafcon2015
This Ivory Coast fan sums up how quite a few of us feel at the moment. What do you think will happen in the second half?
Use #bbcafcon2015 or go to BBC Sport's Facebook page.
Join the debate at #bbcafcon2015
James Earl Kiawoin: A game of anonymity: Toure, Bony, Gyan all missing in action.
Cyprian Kaluma: I hope Ghana wins this for Gyan. A true fighter who never gives up.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Matthew Kenyon
BBC Sport in Bata
"A very low key first half, we knew it might be like this and at the moment I fancy penalties all the way. There has been just one moment of excitement in a rather dull 45 minutes of the Africa Cup of Nations final."
HALF-TIME
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
There you go. Ivory Coast began well, then Ghana had a spell - then both teams took a break for the final 15 minutes of the half. Has the look of penalties at the moment, doesn't it? They had 21 back in the 1992 final.
INJURY TIME
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
One added minute.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Steve Crossman
BBC Sport in Bata
"I think the rain coming down can only be the result of one neutral in the stadium saying 'this can't get any worse'."
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
It is a hot evening in Estadio de Bata, so it's not been a high-intensity workout from either team as yet. We've seen at this tournament teams go up the gears in the final 20 minutes. It's also raining now.
Join the debate at #bbcafcon2015
XP: Ghana is a strong team. But i see the Ivorians taking this by a 1 goal to nil, after the end of 120mins
Ulrich Amoussou: I don't see Ivory Coast defence holding Atsu
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
It is swung in, but collected by Boubacar Barry - aged 35 - he's in goal instead of Sylvain Gbohouo, who has a thigh injury.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Ghana forward Andre Ayew steals into the area on the left, but his attempted cross for Asamoah Gyan comes off the near post.
The Black Stars are shining brightly. They have a free-kick...
Join the debate at #bbcafcon2015
obasi chidi: Today will determine who the crown fit in Africa,winner takes it all, loser stands small
Quoting a bit of Abba there obasi?
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
That's another effort on goal from Ivory Coast. It actually came off Ghana's Harrison Afful, whose clearance sliced off his leg and flew into the hands of his team-mate Razak Braimah - I'd like to see Dynamo try that trick.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Steve Crossman
BBC Sport in Bata
"I think we have been a bit unlucky because the two or three times we have the possibility of this game kicking on and becoming exciting it comes immediately before an injury and that stops play and we have to start again."
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
He got that all wrong. Wilfried Kanon plays the ball to Manchester City's Wilfried Bony, who turns brilliantly on the edge of the area, but scuffs his shot.
That's a 6.0 for artistic value, but 4.8 for technical merit.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
At the moment Ghana have 57% of the possession - they are looking a lot more settled. But you can tell The Elephants are holding back for a swift counter...
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Great to hear from Festus.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Steve Crossman
BBC Sport in Bata
"That was an amazing effort. He is very, very capable from those positions and on this occasion he was very unlucky."
Join the debate at #bbcafcon2015
Festus Abrah-Yeboah: Grant's misfortunes occurred in Europe; this is the African Cup of Nations. The story will be different!
HITS THE WOODWORK!
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
More like smashes the woodwork. Everton's on loan player from Chelsea, Christian Atsu, lets fly from 25 yards and sees his effort crash off the keeper's left-hand post.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Ghana on the attack. Christian Atsu brilliantly brings down a ball into the area before he is brilliantly pickpocketed by Eric Bailly. That will hearten the Black Stars support.
Join the debate at #bbcafcon2015
Mamadi Sirleaf: Serge Aurier is a player to watch, his pace and eye linking passes from the right will be a constant threat to the Ghanaians.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Just had an email from my BBC colleague Nick Cavell, who has been covering the tournament out in Equatorial Guinea.
He says the national TV station are not showing the final - "they had a replay of the hosts v Burkina Faso and have now switched to a music programme".
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Matthew Kenyon
BBC Sport in Bata
"Ghana simply gave the ball away and it fell right to Gervinho, he spotted Gradel but his shot was always falling away from the far post, but a nervous moment in the Ghana defence."
CLOSE!
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Former Leeds player Max Gradel is inches away from giving Ivory Coast the lead as his humdinger of an effort from 18 yards flies over the bar.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Steve Crossman
BBC Sport in Bata
"That looked very painful indeed. Someone would call that a reducer, but they did not reduce him too much because he took the free-kick."
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
It's Yaya Toure again involved in the next attack. His free-kick from 25 yard curls over the wall but is well held by Razak Braimah in the Ghana goal. Moments later, Ivorian Serey Die catches Mubarak Wakaso in very much the 'central Africa region'. That could have been deemed a red card offence.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Ivory Coast captain Yaya Toure stumbles on the edge of the area under a challenge, before falling in the area. Nothing in it says Gambia ref Bakary Papa Gassama. But again, The Elephants threaten.
Join the debate at #bbcafcon2015
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Luke Venn: Like the postman I always deliver.
Earlier today Luke tweeted in to let our colleagues on the Premier League football live page all about his plans for a Ghanaian feast this evening. The boy's done good.
Get in touch using #bbcafcon2015 on Twitter or leave a message on the BBC Sport Facebook.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Ivory Coast have dominated this opening period. They have such a strong and pacy attack. Ghana need to get the ball to Andre Ayew and Asamoah Gyan - it will be interesting to see how fit Gyan is after his abdominal injury.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Matthew Kenyon
BBC Sport in Bata
"Gervinho looks like he is up for this game, it looks like he will be that influential player he was in the group stages."
Join the debate at #bbcafcon2015
Feyera Aga Hirpa: The clash of the two best teams of the continent, this is African Cup of Nations Final! Bring it on
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Ivory Coast winger/forward Gervinho seems to have one thing on his mind tonight - get the ball and run. He just breezed past two Ghana players before John Boye stole the ball from him. No Waltons jokes tonight.
Post update
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Steve Crossman
BBC Sport in Bata
"Not one of these Black Stars players were born when Ghana were last crowned Africa Cup of Nations champions. Avram Grant is going to need to rectify a rotten record in finals if he is to lead them to victory."
KICK-OFF
Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana
Here we go. Ivory Coast get us under way.
BBC meets The Elephant Man
Ivory Coast v Ghana (19:00 GMT)
What's going on here? You've just about got time to find out from BBC World Service reporter Piers Edwards who met the man under the white trunk.
Join the debate at #bbcafcon2015
Peter Mesias Kambala: Renard is used to winning finals, Avram Grant is not- he's probably the only one who won't be hurt if Ghana lose this final.
The anthems
Ivory Coast v Ghana (19:00 GMT)
The anthems are being blasted out. First is the Ivory Coast anthem "L'Abidjanaise", followed by Ghana's "God Bless Our Homeland Ghana".
Glass half empty
Ivory Coast v Ghana (19:00 GMT)
Now looking about Estadio de Bata - it doesn't look very full. There is the fact that Equatorial Guinea were a late replacements as hosts after Morocco were ditched because of their worries over Ebola. Hmmm...
Teams are out
Ivory Coast v Ghana (19:00 GMT)
The teams are coming out on to the pitch...
Join the debate at #bbcafcon2015
Thomas Dolfi: "I fancy Ghana to pull a fast one over the fancied Ivory Coast tonight! The Elephants will be ambushed by their opponents' pace.
Tournament top scorers
Ivory Coast v Ghana (19:00 GMT)
We are a little more than 10 minutes away from kick-off. One of these guys could walk away with the Cup of Nations Golden Boot? Who has impressed you? #bbcafcon2015
Post update
Ivory Coast v Ghana (19:00 GMT)
Piers Edwards
BBC Africa sport
"More security personnel than fans at Estadio de Bata earlier this afternoon. Equatorial Guinea/CAF intent on avoiding Thursday's scenes."
Kanoute on the finalists
Ivory Coast v Ghana (19:00 GMT)
Back to the action coming up, BBC World Service caught up with former Mali and West Ham forward Frederic Kanoute, who believes the best two teams of the competition are contesting the final:
"I would add maybe Algeria, they had a tough group so anyone of that Algerian group could go through. Ghana deserved to go through - they were very serious all the way. And of course Ivory Coast got stronger and stronger as the tournament went along so I think we have the best two teams in the end."