Holders Ivory Coast began their Africa Cup of Nations 2025 campaign with a narrow 1-0 victory over Mozambique in a Group F encounter played in Marrakech on Wednesday.
Manchester United forward Amad Diallo proved decisive, scoring the only goal of the match just four minutes after the restart. Diallo took advantage of hesitant defending to meet Franck Kessie’s knockdown, calmly placing a low shot between the legs of defender Reinildo.
The Elephants dominated much of the first half but struggled to convert their chances against Mozambique, who are ranked 60 places below them in the FIFA rankings. Ivory Coast are aiming to become the first defending champions since Egypt in 2010 to successfully retain the AFCON title.
Mozambique goalkeeper Ernan put in an impressive performance before the break, producing fine saves to deny Yan Diomande and Kessie, including an acrobatic tip over the crossbar and a close-range block.
Ivory Coast had further opportunities to increase their lead, with Ghislain Konan firing wide after being set up by Diallo, while a late breakaway by Kessie ended with substitute Vakoun Bayo denied by Ernan and a timely clearance from midfielder Guima.
Both teams will return to action on Sunday, with Mozambique facing Gabon in Agadir at 12:30 GMT, while Ivory Coast take on five-time champions Cameroon in Marrakech at 20:00 GMT.