Ivory Coast vs Mozambique is live, Group F is on a knife edge, and the team sheets are in. The defending champions have walked into Morocco with a target on their back. Mozambique have arrived with belief and fresh legs. This one will shape the knockout map, and it starts now. ⚽
Team news just confirmed
The lineups are locked and the shapes are clear. Ivory Coast stick with a front-foot 4-3-3, built on power in midfield and pace out wide. A proven number 9 leads their line. Franck Kessie and Seko Fofana both start, giving the Elephants muscle and a passing lane through the middle. Simon Adingra is in from the first whistle, which signals early width and direct running.
Mozambique’s sheet confirms a compact plan, set up to frustrate then break. Geny Catamo starts on the right, their key outlet in transition. Reinildo anchors the left side of the defense, the stopper trusted to handle one-on-one moments. Expect a 4-1-4-1 that can flatten into a low block or spring into a quick 3-on-3.
This is not a cautious selection from either coach. Ivory Coast want control and pressure. Mozambique want timing and space. The first 15 minutes will tell us who wins the tempo.
The tactical battles that will decide it
Ivory Coast will push their fullbacks high, looking to pin Mozambique’s wingers and create two-on-ones. That opens the channel behind the line, which is exactly where Mozambique are most dangerous. Kessie’s discipline without the ball will matter as much as his runs into the box.
- Adingra vs Reinildo, speed against timing, a duel that can flip the match
- Ivory Coast’s 6 against Catamo between the lines, the key to stopping counters
- Set pieces at both ends, Mozambique crowd the near post, Ivory Coast flood the back stick
- The number 9 hold-up play for Ivory Coast, crucial to draw fouls and reset pressure
Mozambique will try to trap on the right, then switch across the second line. If Ivory Coast’s press is even half a step late, Catamo can turn and carry. If the Elephants arrive on time, Mozambique will be forced long and lose shape.
Discipline is a factor. A single early booking for either holding midfielder will change how aggressively they can contest second balls.
What the result means for Group F
This fixture is a hinge game. The winner sits in a strong lane to the last 16. The loser takes on pressure that can squeeze legs and minds in the final group match.
A win for Ivory Coast would underline their status as favorites. It would also allow squad rotation later, keeping stars fresh for the knockouts. A draw keeps them steady, but it invites drama on the last day.
For Mozambique, three points here would be massive. It would put them in control of their own path and inject belief across the camp. Even a point is valuable, especially if they keep their goal difference tidy. A narrow defeat leaves hope, but it leaves no margin for error.
Remember, head-to-head and goal difference can decide spots. Every late sprint, every block, every stoppage-minute set piece can tilt the group.
How to watch the match right now
The game is being carried by the tournament’s official broadcast partners across Africa, Europe, and beyond. A verified free livestream is available in select regions via the event’s digital platform, with match coverage also on the official AFCON app and partner sites. If you are traveling, most services support mobile login. Smart TV apps are active in supported countries.
- Find the match under AFCON 2025, Group F, Ivory Coast vs Mozambique
- If prompted, choose your region and broadcaster sign-in
- Use the official app for live stats, lineups, and instant replays
If the stream buffers, switch from 1080p to 720p for a smoother feed. Keep a radio or audio stream as backup for stoppages.
The mood on the ground
Ivory Coast always brings a drumline and a wall of orange. The voice of their support never dips, win or chase. Mozambique’s following is smaller, but loud and sharp, with flags and whistles that cut through the noise. This is classic AFCON culture, color everywhere, rhythm in every stand, and a match that will live in the lungs long after the final whistle.
The football will be fierce, but smart. Ivory Coast will try to turn possession into field position. Mozambique will protect the half spaces and look for the quick release. One clean touch in the box could settle it. One lost duel at midfield can open it all the way up.
Conclusion
This is a heavyweight against a fearless spoiler, right when the group needs a decider. Ivory Coast have the tools. Mozambique have the puncher’s chance. The lineups say both coaches trust their strengths. The stakes say nobody can blink. Keep your screen on. This game will swing, and it will matter.
