Ivory Coast vs Mozambique AFCON 2025 Preview: Elephants Begin Title Defense

Ivory Coast vs Mozambique promises an exciting clash at the Grand Stade de Marrakech on December 24, 2025. The Elephants, fresh from their triumphant 2023/24 campaign on home soil, aim to become the first team since Egypt in 2010 to retain the title. Meanwhile, Mozambique seeks a historic breakthrough in their sixth AFCON appearance.

Team Form and Recent Performances

Ivory Coast enters the tournament in strong form, having won four of their last six internationals and netting 13 goals. Under coach Emerse Fae, who've matured since their dramatic penalty shootout victory over Nigeria in the last final, the team boasts a balanced squad blending experience and youth. However, they'll miss star striker Sebastien Haller due to a hamstring injury, placing pressure on replacements to step up.

Mozambique, nicknamed the Mambas, qualified as runners-up behind Mali in their group, showcasing resilience but lacking firepower. They've never advanced past the group stage in five prior AFCON tournaments, making this Ivory Coast vs Mozambique fixture a daunting challenge.

Key Players to Watch

For Ivory Coast, keep an eye on Manchester United's Amad Diallo, whose pace and creativity could unlock Mozambique's backline. Midfield anchors Franck Kessie, Seko Fofana, and Ibrahim Sangare provide control, while Aston Villa's Evann Guessand leads the line in Haller's absence. Defender Ousmane Diomande adds attacking threat from the back.

Mozambique relies on Sporting Lisbon's Geny Catamo for goals and flair, supported by forwards Gildo Vilanculos and Stanley Ratifo. With midfielder Pepo sidelined by a knee injury, their midfield must contain Ivory Coast's engine room to have any chance in this Ivory Coast vs Mozambique showdown.

Head-to-Head Record

History favors Ivory Coast in Ivory Coast vs Mozambique encounters. The Elephants are unbeaten, with sources citing between 2-5 wins and 2 draws across competitive and friendly matches. Their last meeting in 2021 World Cup qualifiers ended 3-0 to Ivory Coast, highlighting the gulf in class.

Match Prediction: Ivory Coast vs Mozambique AFCON

Expect a comfortable win for the champions. Ivory Coast's superior squad depth and momentum should prevail, potentially 2-0 or 3-0. An early goal could settle nerves, but Mozambique might frustrate with a compact setup.

What are your thoughts on Ivory Coast vs Mozambique? Predict the score in the comments below and share who you think will shine!