AFCON 2025 - Preview: Ivory Coast vs Mozambique

The Elephants begin the defense of their title. Crowned almost two years ago at home, after a fantastic scenario, the Ivorians will start their AFCON 2025 this Wednesday, December 24, 2025 against Mozambique, in a very strong group F where the other meeting will be between Cameroon and Gabon. Reassuring for Côte d'Ivoire, they have not lost their opening match of the African Cup since 1996. They remains thus on 13 matches without defeat, with 8 wins and 5 draws.

However, the preparation was not ideal for Côte d'Ivoire, who lost notably against Saudi Arabia in November (0-1). Moreover, some elements of the consecration during the 2023 edition are not there. We are thinking in particular of Sébastien Haller, injured or even Nicolas Pépé, dismissed. Executives like Sangaré have suffered a downgrade in the club. It is therefore a team not completely confident that is moving towards this task in Morocco.

Mozambique in search of exploit
Mozambique is seen as the ''Little Lamb'' of the group. The men of Chiquinho Conde, however, do not want to be defined by this tag

 They want to create a sensation. “Several generations have succeeded one another over the course of our participations. This one has more experience. In a competition like the AFCON, starting well is essential, even against the African champion," 

said the Mozambican coach. He will notably be able to count on Reinildo, who played for Atlético Madrid and today at Sunderland.

Nevertheless, it should be noted that Côte d'Ivoire is favored by the book makers. The Elephants have never lost against the Mambas in 5 matches (2 wins, 3 draws). In addition, the Ivorians have won 12 of their last 20 outings (3 draws and 5 defeats).

Emerse Faé, champion against all odds at the last edition, is expected to confirm and defend his title acquired in February 2024. This requires wise choices starting this Wednesday against Mozambique.