Amad Diallo scored his first Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) goal as reigning champions Ivory Coast opened their campaign with a narrow 1-0 victory over Mozambique at the Stade de Marrakech.
The Manchester United winger struck four minutes into the second half, reacting quickest to a loose ball in the penalty area to fire into the bottom corner and finally break Mozambique’s resistance.
Ivory Coast started brightly and almost took the lead inside the opening minute when Yan Diomande’s attempted cross drifted dangerously towards goal, only to find the side netting with goalkeeper Ernan Siluane scrambling.
Amad Diallo celebrating his goal against the Mambas. Photo Credit: Imago
Diomande went close again midway through the first half, meeting a cross in the box and seeing his bouncing effort nearly loop over Siluane, who did well to tip it over the bar.
Mozambique, competing at AFCON for just the sixth time, remained organised and competitive, frustrating the Elephants for long periods. Franck Kessie was denied by an outstanding Siluane save before the break, while Ivory Coast struggled to turn possession into clear chances.
The deadlock was eventually broken shortly after half-time, but Emerse Fae’s side were not at their fluent best despite recent successes that include AFCON glory in 2023 and qualification for the 2026 World Cup. Kessie came close to doubling the lead just after the hour mark, heading narrowly wide of the right post.
Ivory Coast are the defending Champions of the African Cup of Nations. Photo Credit: Getty Images
Mozambique battled until the end and almost snatched a late equaliser when Geny Catamo’s fine solo run in stoppage time forced a smart save from Yahia Fofana. However, the Mambas were ultimately limited to just one shot on target as their wait for a first AFCON win stretched to 16 matches.
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Ivory Coast now turn their attention to a heavyweight clash against Cameroon, who face Gabon later tonight, while Mozambique will look to bounce back when they meet the Panthers on 28 December.
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The result also extends Ivory Coast’s unbeaten record against Mozambique to eight matches and gives the holders a solid, if unspectacular, start to their latest AFCON title defence.
