Amad Diallo scores as Ivory Coast edge Mozambique at AFCON 2025
Amad Diallo scored his first Africa Cup of Nations goal as defending champions Ivory Coast began their campaign with a 1-0 win over Mozambique at the Stade de Marrakech.
The Manchester United winger scored four minutes after half-time, reacting quickly to a loose ball in the box and firing a low shot into the bottom corner to finally break Mozambique’s defence.
Ivory Coast started the match brightly and almost scored in the opening minute when Yan Diomande’s cross drifted towards goal but hit the side netting, with goalkeeper Ernan Siluane scrambling. Diomande went close again later in the first half, forcing Siluane to tip his effort over the bar.
Mozambique stayed organised and frustrated the Elephants for long periods. Franck Kessie was denied by an excellent save before the break as Ivory Coast struggled to turn possession into clear chances.
The goal came shortly after half-time, but Ivory Coast were not at their best despite being the reigning champions. Kessie nearly made it 2-0 just after the hour mark, heading narrowly wide.
Mozambique fought until the end and almost equalised in stoppage time when Geny Catamo forced a fine save from goalkeeper Yahia Fofana. However, the Mambas managed only one shot on target as their winless AFCON run extended to 16 matches.
Ivory Coast will next face Cameroon, while Mozambique will look to recover when they play Gabon on 28 December. The win gives Ivory Coast a steady start to their title defence and extends their unbeaten record against Mozambique to eight matches.
