Mozambique upsets Algeria to secure historic AFCON victory
December 28, 2025 • Al Jazeera
Mozambique Secures Historic Win in Africa Cup of Nations
In a Group F match played on Sunday, Mozambique claimed its first-ever victory in the Africa Cup of Nations, defeating Gabon 3-2 in Agadir. The win marked a significant milestone for the team, which has participated in the tournament 17 times without securing a win.
Mozambique took an early lead with two goals before halftime, courtesy of Faizal Bangal and Geny Catamo. However, Gabon’s Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang pulled one back before Diogo Calila restored Mozambique’s two-goal cushion. Despite Gabon’s late efforts to equalize, Mozambique held on for the win.
In another Group F match, Cameroon drew 1-1 with Ivory Coast in Marrakesh Stadium. Amad Diallo scored for Ivory Coast in the 51st minute, but Junior Tchamadeu levelled for Cameroon in the 56th minute. The draw sees both teams share the lead in the group with four points apiece.
Algeria also secured a narrow win over Burkina Faso, with Riyad Mahrez scoring a penalty to give them a 1-0 victory. The goal was awarded after Rayan Ait-Nouri was bundled over, and Mahrez has now scored three goals at the tournament.
Sudan also won their Group E match against Equatorial Guinea, with Saul Coco’s own goal securing a 1-0 win. The result boosts Sudan’s chances of qualifying for the knockout stage.
These results have implications for the teams’ standings in their respective groups. Mozambique has secured its first-ever victory in the tournament, while Algeria has taken a significant step towards guaranteeing a top-two finish.
Source: Al Jazeera