Cote d’Ivoire opened their AFCON title defence with a 1-0 victory over Mozambique in Marrakech, extending the Mambas’ long wait for a first win at the tournament.
After several missed chances before the break, the breakthrough came four minutes into the second half when Amad Diallo’s effort found the net following a Franck Kessie header into his path.
The reigning champions were not at their best and failed to add to their lead, but Mozambique offered little threat in response, managing just one shot on target.
The win extends Cote d’Ivoire’s unbeaten run against the Mambas to eight matches and gives them a solid start in Group F.
