Defending champions Ivory Coast began their quest to retain their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title against Mozambique on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, at the Stade de Marrakech in Morocco. The Elephants, who won the previous edition on home soil in early 2024, are aiming to become the first nation to defend their crown since Egypt in 2010.
The match, valid for the first round of Group F, kicked off at 5:30 PM GMT. In the UK, the game was broadcast on 4Seven, with streaming available on the Channel 4 Sport YouTube channel and the Channel 4 website and app.
Ivory Coast's preparations were disrupted by a hamstring injury to key striker Sebastien Haller. Aston Villa's Evann Guessand replaced Haller and was expected to start. The Ivorian lineup also featured Manchester United's Amad Diallo and Sporting's Ousmane Diomande in support of Guessand, with a midfield trio of Franck Kessie, Seko Fofana, and Ibrahim Sangare.
Mozambique, considered underdogs, were without Pepo due to a serious knee injury. Their main threat was expected to come from Sporting's Geny Catamo. The probable Mozambique lineup included Ernani in goal, with a defense of Dove, Mexer, Reinildo, Nanani, and Langa. The midfield featured Guima and Amade, with Witi, Catamo, and Ratifo in attack.
Emerse Faé, the Ivory Coast coach, emphasized the importance of ruthlessness in converting opportunities, regardless of who scores. He acknowledged the difficulty of defending the AFCON title, noting that all opponents made their lives difficult as titleholders. Chiquinho Conde, the Mozambique coach, reflected on his career, including his move to Belenenses and his pride in representing Mozambique.
Historically, Ivory Coast has a favorable record against Mozambique, remaining unbeaten in their seven encounters with five wins and two draws. However, the two draws occurred in their last three meetings, suggesting a narrowing gap between the teams. Mozambique is making its fifth AFCON appearance and is still searching for its first-ever win in the tournament.
The Elephants are enjoying a solid run of form, with only one defeat in their last seven international matches, also securing their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Meanwhile, Mozambique's recent form has been mixed, with three winless matches leading up to the tournament. Despite their underdog status, Mozambique drew 2-2 with Egypt in the last AFCON, demonstrating their potential to cause upsets.
The match in Marrakech is crucial for both teams in a competitive Group F. Ivory Coast aims to assert their dominance and build a foundation for another ambitious campaign, while Mozambique seeks to resist and potentially spring a surprise.
