Ivory Coast begin their AFCON 2025 title defence against Mozambique knowing expectation, rather than surprise, now follows them into every group match.
The reigning champions open Group F in Marrakech as clear favourites, with the market reflecting a sizeable quality gap between the sides.
AFRICA PICKS: Cameroon vs Gabon – AFCON 2025 bets to bank on
Ivory Coast arrive carrying momentum from their AFCON 2023 triumph, but questions remain over fitness and how aggressively they push in a tournament opener where control often matters more than spectacle.
Mozambique, meanwhile, travel with a settled squad and a defensive-first mindset, aiming to frustrate early and limit space rather than trade chances. Their recent tournament performances suggest resilience, even if attacking output remains limited against top-tier opposition.
From a betting perspective, the value lies less in backing the holders outright and more in how the match unfolds.
AFRICA PICKS: Ivory Coast vs Mozambique – AFCON 2025 bets to bank on
A structured Ivory Coast performance, territorial dominance and limited chances conceded point towards a controlled win rather than a goal-fest.
Africa Picks highlights markets that reflect game state, pressure and discipline, areas where AFCON openers are often decided quietly rather than explosively.
Photo: Kevin Sousa/Getty Images
