The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations is getting underway, and Group F promises excitement from the very start. On Wednesday, 24 December 2025, Ivory Coast and Mozambique face off in a match that perfectly reflects the diversity, competitiveness, and growth of African football.
With Cameroon and Gabon also in the group, every game carries huge importance from the first round. There is no room for mistakes, and this opening fixture could shape the course of both teams throughout the group stage.
More than just a match, it is a celebration of African football, with nations of different histories and journeys competing side by side, representing the pride of their people.
Ivory Coast’s status in the tournament
Ivory Coast enters AFCON 2025 as one of the continent’s most respected teams. With a strong tournament history and successive generations of talent, the “Elephants” always compete with clear ambition to go far.
The Ivorian team combines international experience with individual quality across the pitch, allowing them to remain highly competitive in short tournaments like AFCON. The expectation is for a solid team, capable of taking control of the game when needed, but also prepared to handle tight, physical encounters.
In this balanced Group F, Ivory Coast knows that a good start is essential. A positive result in the opening match could provide confidence for the challenges ahead against Cameroon and Gabon.
Mozambique and their rise in African football
On the other side, Mozambique may not be among the favourites, but they have steadily gained respect and credibility in African football. In recent years, the “Mambas” have shown progress, organisation, and a clearer identity on the pitch.
Mozambique enter this AFCON with realistic ambition but also the belief that they can compete, create difficulties, and surprise many. The team has demonstrated tactical maturity and a strong competitive spirit — key factors for facing traditionally stronger teams.
For Mozambique, this match is a chance to show the continent that their growth is real. A strong performance against Ivory Coast could boost team confidence and send a clear message to the other group opponents.
What is at stake in the opening match
As the first game of the group stage, Ivory Coast v Mozambique carries significant strategic weight. A good result can set the tone for the campaign, while a slip could force risks in the following rounds.
We can expect an intense and competitive match, with moments of careful study typical of tournament openers. Ivory Coast will likely aim to take control of the game, while Mozambique will try to make the most of key moments, using defensive organisation and fast transitions.
Whatever the outcome, this is one of those matches that represents the essence of AFCON: competitiveness, passion, commitment, and the pride of representing your nation.
A clash for the whole continent to follow
Ivory Coast v Mozambique is more than just a group game. It symbolises the richness of African football, where tradition and growth meet on the pitch. For fans across Africa, it is another chance to support, celebrate, and enjoy AFCON as the continent’s premier football stage.
With the tournament just starting and everything still to play for, this match deserves to be watched closely by all African football enthusiasts.
Mr Predictor’s Odds Tips
As expected, Mr Predictor has prepared a bet for the Ivory Coast v Mozambique match, using the Bet Builder tool. Check out the suggested selections below:
- Halftime / Fulltime – Ivory Coast @ 1.83
- Both Teams to Score (BTTS) – No @ 1.52
- Highest scoring half – Second @ 2.17
🔥 Total Bet Builder Odds: 9.84
To see more of Mr Predictor’s valuable tips for this weekend and place your bets with greater confidence, click here.
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