AFCON: Ivory Coast coach Émerse Faé reveals concern despite win

Ivory Coast national team head coach Émerse Faé has admitted the African champions must improve in one key area despite kicking off their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title defence against with a 1-0 against Mozambique on Wednesday in Morocco.

In the Group F fixture at the Marrakech Stadium, the Elephants had to wait until shortly after the interval to find the breakthrough, with Amad Diallo delivering the decisive moment.

🎥 HIGHLIGHTS: 🇨🇮 1-0 🇲🇿

The Elephants begin their title-defending campaign in the #TotalEnergiesAFCON2025 with a win. pic.twitter.com/5qk2CIPq8L

— TotalEnergies AFCON 2025 (@CAF_Online) December 24, 2025

After dominating most parts of the game with Franck Kessié and Wilfried Zaha looking dangerous, Ivory Coast finally broke the deadlock four minutes into the second half when Kessié rose to meet a delivery and headed the ball into the path of Diallo, who showed composure to steer a low into the net.

Ivory Coast must improve in decision-making

Speaking after the game, coach Faé was impressed with the team’s solidarity but warned they must improve on their decision-,making if they are to defend the title in the North African nation.

“We faced a good team and managed to keep a clean sheet. Once again, we saw the solidarity that has been with us for several months, as well as the players’ effort and mindset, which were already evident during our training camp in Spain,” Faé told reporters as quoted by CAFOnline.com.

“If there is one area we still need to improve, it is decision-making and finishing. Sometimes the cross should be played along the ground but is delivered in the air. These are the details that make the difference at this level.”

The narrow victory put Ivory Coast top of their group as they prepare for matchday two against Cameroon at Stade de Marrakech on Sunday, December 28.

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