Prediction: Ivory Coast vs Mozambique – Betting Tips, Team News, Key Facts
Verdict: Ivory Coast win
Best Odds: 4/11
Bookmaker: Olympusbet
As they kick off their defense of the AFCON title on Wednesday evening, Ivory Coast will face Mozambique in Marrakech.
Focusing on Ivory Coast, they made a spectacular return to the World Cup finals in October and are set to play on the grand stage for the first time since 2014 next summer; the atmosphere within Emerse Fae’s camp is extremely positive. Building on their momentum over the weekend, they concluded their preparations for the tournament with a comfortable 2-0 win against Oman. The Elephants are eager to defend their AFCON title over the upcoming month. Securing a spot in North America next summer following a notable 3-0 victory over Kenya on October 14th, the Ivory Coast is on a competitive unbeaten streak for the past 12 months and aims to make a strong first impression on Wednesday evening.
Ivory Coast Team News
In a surprising move earlier this month, former Crystal Palace star Wilfried Zaha has been called up by the Ivory Coast for the first time in nearly two years. Despite having played a significant role in the Elephants’ triumph at the 2023 AFCON, Sunderland’s Simon Adingra has not made the squad. Four players from the Premier League have been selected: Nottingham Forest’s Ibrahim Sangare and Willy Boly, Wolves’ Emmanuel Agbadou, and Manchester United winger Amad Diallo. Now competing domestically for Saudi Pro League club Al-Ahli, Franck Kessie will captain Fae’s squad and earn his 97th international cap.
Mozambique
Turning to Mozambique, after failing to secure a win in any of their three AFCON matches in Ivory Coast three years ago, Chiquinho Conde’s squad faces another significant challenge in the coming month. Listed as clear underdogs in Group F, the Mambas could not have asked for a more difficult task. Completing their pre-tournament preparations with a concerning display, they faltered to a 4-1 defeat against Angola. Having achieved only two victories in their last 10 matches across all competitions, it’s important to note that Mozambique lost 3-0 in their previous encounter with the Elephants back in November 2021.
Mozambique Team News
Making a notable impact since joining Premier League newcomers Sunderland over the summer, former Atletico Madrid defender Reinildo Mandava will be in the starting lineup on Wednesday evening, marking his 54th international cap. Providing a significant attacking presence for Portuguese giants Sporting Lisbon this season, Geny Catamo will be key in Mozambique’s offensive efforts. Confirming his position as Conde’s top choice, Ernan Siluane will take his place in goal for this match.
Ivory Coast vs Mozambique Key Factors to Consider
– In their last matchup in November 2021, Ivory Coast, the reigning AFCON champions, won decisively with a score of 3-0.
– Ivory Coast remains unbeaten in all six of their historical encounters against Wednesday’s rivals (four wins, two draws).
– The Elephants have not faced a single competitive loss in the last 12 months.
– Mozambique has managed just two wins in their last 10 games across all competitions.
– The defending AFCON champions have allowed only one goal in their last seven matches overall.
Conclusion
Aiming to firmly defend their AFCON title, the Ivory Coast is set to initiate their Group F journey with a strong statement. Considered a key title contender, the Elephants are poised to seize a favorable opportunity on Wednesday evening. Having achieved a commanding 3-0 win during their previous encounter with Mozambique in November 2021 and remaining unbeaten in their six historical meetings, we believe Fae’s squad deserves to be viewed as the clear favorite in Marrakech. Known for their robust defensive capabilities, Ivory Coast sees this as a prime opportunity.
Verdict: Ivory Coast win
Best Odds: 4/11
Bookmaker: Olympusbet
Published: 2025-12-22 04:00:00
source: www.soccernews.com
