AFCON 2023: Ghana Vs. Mozambique preview
A robust finale is in the pipeline to grip Group B of the African Cup of Nations when Ghana tussle with Mozambique in a practically winner takes all encounter. A point apiece from two matches, Black Stars and Manbas need a win to stand a real chance of qualifying to next round.
Ghana who led Egypt twice on Day-2 but however ended with just a point are on the brink of another AFCON group stage exit, are level on one point with their opponents in this match, who are at the bottom of the group standings.
History doesn’t look good on Mozambique who had a 12-year wait to qualify for the AFCON with notable absence in the last six éditions. The Mambas are without win in the tournament losing eleven and drawing three of the fourteen matches played.
Their commendable MD-1 draw with Egypt skyed confidence in the Mozambique camp but Cape Verde brought the crashing in that 3-0 defeat last Friday. They have themselves to blame for misdemeanors such as that of goalkeeper Ernan’s in Cape Verde’s first goal and a defensive let-off from center back, Edmilson Dove.
Mozambique have never kept a clean sheet in the continental showpiece, conceding 31 goals and allowing two or more goals in 13 of their 14 AFCON matches.
After a poor start to the competition Ghana upgraded with a better performance against Egypt but despite taking the lead twice, they were unable to hang on and rather settled for a draw.
Considering Mohamed Kudus marked his campaign with a brace against Egypt, Chris Hughton will be confident his team possess the right quality to send home Mozambique.
Ghana is currently on a worrisome sixth match without win in the Cup of Nations and victory over Mozambique does not assure direct passage into next round should Egypt beat Cape Verde. However a win and four points will almost certainly be good enough to finish as one of the best third-placed teams.
Chiquinho Conde effected tweaks to his team in the last game, readjusting Reneildo into his back three and it will be interesting to see if they continue with that. Subs against Cape Verde, Lau King and Domingues against Cape Verde will contend to start against Ghana.
The Black Stars have no injury concerns at and may turn to veteran Andre Ayew for extra strength in attack after the Le Havre attacker remained as an unused substitute in the last match.
