AFCON 2025: Amad Diallo named Man of the Match in Ivory Coast's victory against Mozambique

Amad Diallo took centre stage in Marrakech, guiding Cote d’Ivoire to a narrow win and earning the Man of the Match award on a tense opening night at the Africa Cup of Nations.

His sharp movement, tidy control and calm finish made the difference in a game that demanded patience and discipline from the defending champions.

The Elephants kept the ball well but found space hard to come by against a compact Mozambique side backed by a lively crowd at the Marrakech Stadium. Yan Diomande’s penalty appeal was waved away, and Ghislain Konan later miscued after a neat solo run from Diallo on the right.

The breakthrough arrived four minutes after the break when Franck Kessie’s header dropped kindly for Diallo, who stayed composed and guided a low effort beyond the goalkeeper.

Mozambique’s Ernan Siluane then produced a strong save from Kessie, who soon headed wide from close range. Vakoun Bayo threatened a second late on, yet Yahia Fofana remained largely untested. Cote d’Ivoire face Cameroon on December 28 at the same venue in what promises to be stern test.