Ivory Coast got off to a winning start in Group K after scraping past Niger 1-0 at the Stade Felix Houphouet-Boigny.
The Elephants missed the chance to take a first-half lead after Max Gradel failed to convert from the penalty spot on 23 minutes.
The hosts were awarded a second penalty after 68 minutes, but AC Milan star Franck Kessie took responsibilty and converted the spot-kick to seal three points.
The 2015 champions take on Ethiopia in theri second Group K clash next week.
Madagascar made a winning start to their Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign after defeating Ethiopia on Saturday afternoon.
Rayan Raveloson got the game's only goal after 18 minutes to send Madagascar up to second spot in Group K.
Madagascar will turn their attention to Tuesday's encounter away to Niger
