Manchester United winger Amad Diallo scored the winner as AFCON holders Ivory Coast beat Mozambique 1-0 in their Group F opener in Marrakech.
Manchester United winger Amad Diallo scored the decisive goal as Ivory Coast opened their AFCON title defence with a 1-0 win over Mozambique. The Group F clash was played at the Stade de Marrakech on Wednesday evening. It ensured the defending champions began their campaign with three valuable points.
Ivory Coast dominated large spells but struggled to turn control into goals before the break. Mozambique, ranked 102nd in the world, defended with discipline and limited clear chances. The holders went into half time level despite sustained pressure.
The deadlock was broken four minutes into the second half. Amad reacted quickest to Franck Kessie’s knockdown inside the box. The Manchester United forward guided a low finish between Reinildo’s legs and past goalkeeper Ernan Siluane.
It was Amad’s moment after a lively first half performance. He had already created one of Ivory Coast’s best chances by setting up Ghislain Konan. That opportunity was wasted, summing up the holders’ frustration before the breakthrough.
Ivory Coast created several opportunities to extend their lead. Kessie forced a save from Ernan with a close-range header and later hesitated when clean through. Vakoun Bayo also saw an effort denied, with Guima clearing off the line late on.
Despite the missed chances, Emerse Fae’s side remained in control. Mozambique offered little threat but stayed competitive through defensive organisation. Geny Catamo tested Yahia Fofana late on, forcing a sharp save in stoppage time.
Amad’s goal proved decisive and shows his growing influence for club and country. The Manchester United winger was direct throughout and troubled Mozambique’s back line. Kessie provided physical presence and creativity from midfield, while Yan Diomande impressed on the opposite wing.
Mozambique goalkeeper Ernan produced several important saves to keep the score down. Domingues Pelembe also made history when he came on as a substitute at 42 years and 41 days. He became the oldest outfield player in AFCON history. The overall record is held by former Egypt legend Essam El-Hadary who played in goal against Cameroon in the 2017 final aged 44 years and 21 days.
Ivory Coast registered 15 shots during the contest. Their expected goals total stood at 1.26. Mozambique managed just four shots with an xG of 0.24.
The result extended Ivory Coast’s strong AFCON record. They are now unbeaten in their last 14 opening matches at the tournament. Mozambique, meanwhile, remain without a win in 16 AFCON appearances.
Ivory Coast next face five-time champions Cameroon in Marrakech on Sunday. That fixture could shape the group’s outcome and it will also pit Amad against his Man United teammate Bryan Mbeumo. Cameroon also opened with a win after beating Gabon 1-0.
Mozambique will look to respond when they meet Gabon in Agadir earlier the same day. With qualification at stake, both sides know defeat would leave little margin for error. For Manchester United, a club still reeling from losing captain Bruno Fernandes to a hamstring injury, Amad’s contribution will be watched closely as his AFCON campaign gathers momentum.
