MARRAKECH, Morocco - Defending champions Ivory Coast began their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Mozambique in their Group F opener on Sunday.
Manchester United winger Amad Diallo proved the difference maker, slotting home a 49th-minute winner after capitalizing on defensive hesitation. The composed finish through a defender's legs came from Franck Kessie's headed assist, giving the Elephants a crucial three points.
"We created numerous chances but need to be more clinical," said Ivory Coast coach Emerse Fae. "This win gives us momentum for the bigger challenges ahead."
The West Africans dominated proceedings but struggled to convert first-half opportunities. Mozambique goalkeeper Ernan kept his side in contention with key saves, including an acrobatic stop from Yan Diomande's miscued shot and a reflex denial of Kessie's close-range header.
Key Moments:
- Ghislain Konan missed sitter from Amad's cutback
- 42-year-old Domingues became tournament's oldest outfield player
- Mozambique's Geny Catamo forced late save from Yahia Fofana
The victory extends Ivory Coast's unbeaten run in tournament openers to 14 matches, while Mozambique continues searching for their first-ever Afcon win. The Mambas showed resilience but rarely threatened beyond Catamo's late effort.
Both teams return to action on Sunday, with Mozambique facing Gabon in Agadir (12:30 GMT) while Ivory Coast meets five-time champions Cameroon in Marrakech (20:00 GMT) in a crucial group encounter.
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