Amad Diallo scores goal as Ivory Coast win against Mozambique at AFCON

Holders Ivory Coast had a number of chances to score, but Amad Diallo’s goal in the opening minute gave them a winning start to their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title defense.

The Ivorians battled to defeat their rivals in the opening Group F game on Wednesday in Morocco, but they were unable to convert the numerous chances they had.

In the 49th minute, Diallo side-footed the ball into the net to make it three points, but the Ivorians’ sharper start would have been much more decisive.

After being surprise recall for the Cup of Nations finals, Wilfried Zaha wasted several chances while Franck Kessie saved two point-blank saves from Mozambique goalkeeper Ernan, who was playing his first international since more than two years.

In the 89th minute, Bayo had an opportunity to clear an effort off the line with Ernan caught well out of his goal, and Ivorian substitute Vakoun Bayo had one with an easy header in front of goal, but somehow it was wide.

Dominguez, 42 years, one month and six days old, was chosen as a second-half substitute for Mozambique, making him the oldest outfield player in tournament history, trailing only former Egypt goalkeeper Essam El Hadary, who was 44 when he played in the 2017 final.

Since making their tournament debut in 1986, Mozambique is still unable to defeat other nations in a final. With a record of four draws and 12 losses, they are currently in their sixth meeting.