Amad Diallo Strike Earns Ivory Coast Narrow AFCON Victory Over Mozambique

Defending champions Ivory Coast began their Africa Cup of Nations title defence with a hard-fought 1–0 win over Mozambique, with Amad Diallo’s second-half goal proving decisive despite a host of missed chances.

The Group F encounter, played in rainy conditions in Morocco on Wednesday, saw the Ivorians dominate possession and territory but struggle to translate their superiority into goals. A competitive first half ended goalless, with Mozambique proving difficult to break down before Ivory Coast took control after the interval.

The breakthrough arrived four minutes into the second half when Diallo calmly side-footed the ball into the net in the 49th minute, securing all three points for the holders. However, the narrow scoreline failed to reflect the number of opportunities created by the Ivorians.

Wilfried Zaha, making his first international appearance in more than two years following a surprise recall for the tournament, was unable to convert several promising chances. Franck Kessié was also denied twice from close range by an impressive display from Mozambique goalkeeper Ernan.

Substitute Vakoun Bayo also came close to extending the lead, heading wide from point-blank range before seeing a late effort cleared off the line in the 89th minute with Ernan caught out of position.

Mozambique, meanwhile, made history in the second half by introducing winger Dominguez at the age of 42 years, one month and six days. His appearance made him the oldest outfield player in Africa Cup of Nations history, behind only former Egypt goalkeeper Essam El Hadary, who featured in the 2017 final aged 44.

The defeat extended Mozambique’s long wait for a victory at the AFCON finals. Since making their tournament debut in 1986, they have now gone six appearances without a win, recording four draws and 12 defeats.