Côte d’Ivoire welcome Mozambique for an AFCON showdown that marks a fresh chapter for both sides.
With the tournament just getting underway and neither team having played yet, anticipation hangs in the air as both squads look to make a statement at the outset. This encounter, set for Stade de Marrakech, could set the tone for the campaign—especially with so little recent form or head-to-head history to go on.
Best Bets & Predictions
This match is all about who can seize the initiative. Côte d’Ivoire’s talent pool, especially in attack, gives them the edge. Mozambique, on the other hand, will look to frustrate and pounce on any opening. Here are our top predictions for this clash:
| Our Prediction | Odds & Bookmaker | Confidence | Why We’re Backing It |
|---|---|---|---|
| Côte d’Ivoire to Win | 4/11 @ Bet365 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Backing the home side’s superior squad depth and attacking options. |
| Côte d’Ivoire Clean Sheet | 8/11 @ AK Bets | ⭐⭐⭐ | Mozambique rarely prolific; Côte d’Ivoire defence looks solid on paper. |
Odds correct at the time of writing.
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Season Form & Standings
With no games played so far, both teams are looking to get off the mark. The opening day creates a level playing field, but Côte d’Ivoire’s higher squad quality could tell.
| Team (Group F) | Pos | P | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cameroon | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Gabon | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Mozambique | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Cote d’Ivoire | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Potential Match-Winners
With no recent stats available, Côte d’Ivoire’s attacking group stands out. Keep an eye on Wilfried Zaha and Amad Diallo—both are capable of unlocking tight games with individual brilliance. In midfield, Franck Kessie brings top-level experience, while the defensive pairing of Ndicka and Boly should offer stability. Mozambique will rely on Stanley Ratifo’s movement up front and the leadership of Edmilson Dove at the back.
Head-to-Head: Last 5 Meetings
These two nations have faced off sparingly over the past few years, with Mozambique failing to win any of the last five matches and Cote d’Ivoire winning three times.
| Date | Score | Competition |
|---|---|---|
| 13/11/21 | Cote d’Ivoire 3-0 Mozambique | World Cup Qualifying |
| 03/09/21 | Mozambique 0-0 Cote d’Ivoire | World Cup Qualifying |
| 07/09/08 | Mozambique 1-1 Cote d’Ivoire | World Cup Qualifying |
| 01/06/08 | Cote d’Ivoire 1-0 Mozambique | World Cup Qualifying |
| 20/01/96 | Cote d’Ivoire 1-0 Mozambique | AFCON |
Conclusion
With both teams looking to make a positive start to their campaign, the lack of recent form or head-to-head history means this match could hinge on which side settles quickest. Côte d’Ivoire’s attacking talent and home advantage tip the scales, making them our top selection for the win. Will the Elephants justify their status and reward backers at 4/11 with Bet365?
Odds correct at the time of writing. Please gamble responsibly.
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