Amad strike earns Ivory Coast opening AFCON win against Mozambique

Manchester United forward Amad Diallo scored the decisive goal as defending champions Ivory Coast began their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a 1-0 victory over Mozambique in Group F in Marrakech.

The Elephants, chasing a historic title defence not achieved since Egypt in 2010, dominated the opening half but wasted a series of chances against Mozambique, who are ranked 102nd in the world — 60 places below Ivory Coast.

Relief came four minutes after the interval when Amad capitalised on hesitant defending, latching onto Franck Kessie’s knockdown to slot a low finish between the legs of defender Reinildo, BBC sports reports.

Ivory Coast goalkeeper Ernan was repeatedly called into action before the break, tipping over Yan Diomande’s effort and denying Kessie from close range, while Ghislain Konan squandered a clear opening by firing wide after good work from Amad.

Kessie went close to doubling the lead late on but hesitated when through on goal, allowing Mozambique to scramble clear as Ernan and Guima combined to keep the scoreline down.

Ivory Coast face five-time champions Cameroon in their next group match on Sunday, while Mozambique take on Gabon earlier the same day.

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