Ivory Coast Edge Mozambique 1-0 in Opening Match of AFCON 2025

Ivory Coast Edge Mozambique 1-0 in Opening Match of AFCON 2025

Ivory Coast kicked off their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Mozambique in the tournament’s opening fixture, setting the tone for what promises to be a fiercely competitive competition.

Playing in front of an energetic home crowd, the Elephants showed composure and experience as they navigated a disciplined Mozambique side that proved difficult to break down for large spells of the encounter. The lone goal of the match came after sustained pressure from the hosts, rewarding their dominance and early attacking intent.

Mozambique, however, were far from pushovers. They defended resolutely and created a handful of chances on the counter, forcing Ivory Coast to remain alert at the back. Despite their spirited performance, the Mambas were unable to find an equaliser, as the Ivorians managed the game effectively in the closing stages.

The win gives Ivory Coast a vital early advantage in their group, boosting confidence as they look to make a strong statement on home soil. For Mozambique, the narrow defeat offers encouragement ahead of their remaining group matches, with positives to build on despite the result.

AFCON 2025 continues with more group fixtures as Africa’s finest nations battle for continental glory.