Ivory Coast kick off the defence of their African Cup of Nations title against Mozambique on Wednesday.
They finished second behind Zambia in their qualification group, but have since bounced back with strong performances in World Cup fixtures.
Mozambique were second best in Group I, securing their place in the finals for the sixth time.
Match preview
Ivory Coast have one of the best squads, aided by their physicality and wide threats from players such as Amad Diallo, Yan Diomande and Oumar Diakite.
Ivory Coast have faced Mozambique seven times, winning five and drawing two, adding to their credentials as favourites for this clash.
The Mambas have never progressed beyond the group stage, and will be aiming to make history here, starting with a positive result against the defending champions.
Mozambique will hope to take inspiration from their spirited display against host country Morocco in a friendly match last month, although they lost 1-0.
Sporting CP midfielder Geny Catamo and Sunderland’s Reinildo Mandava are their most prominent players.
Team news
Ivory Coast will be without Sebastian Haller – who was the match-winner in their final triumph – due to injury. He has since been replaced by Aston Villa forward Evann Guessand.
Mozambique’s veteran midfielder Pepo is sidelined. He sustained an injury before the squad announcement.
Predicted line-ups
Ivory Coast (4-3-3): Yahia Fofana, Guela Doue, Emmanuel Agbadou, Evan Ndicka, Ghislain Konan, Amad Diallo, Ibrahima Sangare, Franck Kessie, Oumar Diakite, Yan Diomande, Evann Guessand.
Mozambique (4-2-3-1) : Ernan Siluane, Bruno Langa, Reinildo Mandava, Edmilson Dove, Infren Matola, Alfons Amade, Manuel Kambala, Gildo Lourenco, Joao Bonde, Witi, Stanley Ratifo.
Prediction
We expect Ivory Coast to triumph 2-0.
Stats from 11v11.com.
