Amad Diallo Goal Secures 1-0 Ivory Coast Win Over Mozambique in Shaky AFCON Opener

One goal was enough, but it shouldn't have been. Holders Ivory Coast kicked off their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title defence with a narrow 1-0 victory over Mozambique on December 24, a scoreline that masks a story of wasted opportunities. Amad Diallo's second-half strike was the difference in their Group F opener in Morocco, earning him man of the match honors, according to AFP.

A Tale of Missed Chances

After a competitive first half in rainy conditions, the Ivorians took firm control but failed to convert their dominance into goals. Diallo finally broke the deadlock in the 49th minute, but the scoreline could have been far more emphatic. Wilfried Zaha, in his first international appearance in over two years, squandered several chances. Franck Kessie saw two point-blank efforts expertly saved by Mozambique keeper Ernan.

The wastefulness continued as substitute Vakoun Bayo somehow headed an easy chance wide, and later had another effort cleared off the line in the 89th minute.

Mozambique Makes History, But Waits for a Win

Despite the loss, Mozambique had a record-making moment. Winger Dominguez came on as a substitute at the age of 42 years, one month and six days, becoming the oldest outfield player in the tournament's history book. He's second only to former Egypt goalkeeper Essam El Hadary (44 in the 2017 final). However, their wait for a first-ever win at the AFCON finals continues. In their sixth appearance since their debut in 1986, their record now stands at four draws and 12 losses.