Côte d’Ivoire edged past Mozambique with a narrow 1–0 victory in a tightly contested AFCON 25 encounter, securing a crucial result in a match that demanded patience, discipline, and tactical awareness. The Ivorians were not at their fluent best, but they showed the composure and control needed to grind out a win on the continental stage.
The opening stages were evenly balanced, with Mozambique showing early confidence and defensive organization. They pressed intelligently in midfield, limiting Côte d’Ivoire’s rhythm and forcing play wide. Despite enjoying more of the ball, the Ivorians found it difficult to break through a well-drilled Mozambican back line in the first half.
As the game settled, Côte d’Ivoire began to impose greater control through midfield, increasing the tempo and pushing higher up the pitch. Mozambique remained compact, relying on quick transitions and long balls to relieve pressure. Clear chances were scarce before the break, with both goalkeepers largely untested.
The breakthrough came in the second half after sustained pressure from Côte d’Ivoire. A well-timed attacking move created space in the final third, and the finish was composed, sending the home supporters into celebration. The goal reflected Côte d’Ivoire’s growing authority and persistence.
Mozambique responded with renewed energy, committing more players forward in search of an equalizer. They enjoyed brief spells of pressure and tested the Ivorian defense with crosses and long-range efforts, but lacked the final touch to turn possession into a goal.
In the closing stages, Côte d’Ivoire managed the game effectively, slowing the tempo and keeping the ball in safe areas. Their defensive line held firm under late pressure, ensuring there was no route back for Mozambique.
The final whistle confirmed a 1–0 win for Côte d’Ivoire — a professional and disciplined performance that keeps them firmly on track in AFCON 25. Mozambique can take encouragement from their organization and resilience, but they ultimately fell short against a side that knew how to seize its moment.