Ivory Coast start title defense with narrow victory

Defending champions Ivory Coast kicked off their 1XBET Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 campaign with a hard-fought victory over Mozambique at the Stade de Marrakech on Wednesday, as Group F action got underway in Morocco.

The Elephants entered the encounter intent on laying down an early marker, dominating possession from the outset and applying sustained pressure as they searched for an opening against a disciplined Mozambican side, hoping to spring a surprise in their second successive AFCON appearance.

Ivory Coast’s patience was eventually rewarded shortly after the break. Amad Diallo found the breakthrough after latching onto a perfectly weighted pass from Franck Kessié, calmly slotting home to give his side the decisive advantage and ignite celebrations among the Ivorian supporters in Marrakech.

Mozambique responded with renewed urgency, relying on swift counter-attacks to test the champions. However, Ivory Coast’s defensive structure remained firm, with goalkeeper Yahia Fofana making key interventions to preserve the lead.

Despite being under sustained pressure for much of the contest, Mozambique defended resolutely and limited the scoreline, frustrating the Ivorians and preventing further goals.

The 1–0 victory secured a valuable three points for Ivory Coast as they began their title defence on a positive note in Group F. Mozambique, meanwhile, will take encouragement from their organised display but must quickly refocus as they prepare for their remaining group matches.

The result underlined Ivory Coast’s credentials as one of the leading contenders at AFCON 2025, while also highlighting the competitiveness of the tournament, where well-drilled underdogs continue to challenge the continent’s elite.