Africa Cup
Germany’s World Cup opponents start with victory
12/25/2025 – 2:02 a.mReading time: 1 min.
The Ivorians’ mission to defend their title starts with a well-planned victory. The performance shouldn’t cause much of a headache for the German national players with a view to the World Cup.
Germany’s World Cup opponents Ivory Coast achieved a lackluster victory at the Africa Cup of Nations. The defending champion beat outsiders Mozambique 1-0 (0-0) in their opening game on Christmas Eve. The goal for the Ivorians was scored by Amad Diallo in the 49th minute at the Stade de Marrakech.
Leipzig Bundesliga professional Yan Diomande played for the winning team from the start. Bazoumana Touré from TSG Hoffenheim sat on the bench throughout the game.
Last year, Ivory Coast won their third continental title at their home tournament – despite a change of coach during the finals. Coach Emerse Faé’s team is also one of the favorites to win at this year’s edition in Morocco. Other group opponents are Cameroon and Gabon.
The Ivory Coast will face the German team of national coach Julian Nagelsmann in the second preliminary round game at the World Cup on June 20, 2026 in Toronto. Other teams in Group E are Ecuador and World Cup debutants Curaçao.