As Ghana gets ready for what should be an electrifying match against Mozambique at the Stade Olympique Alassane Ouattara on Monday night, the fate of Group B in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is hanging precariously in the balance.
A thrilling matchup that will stop at nothing to achieve glory is what fans can expect, with both teams desperate for a vital win to turn around their struggling campaigns.
Ghana, also known as the Black Stars, is coming off a terrible AFCON campaign. Coming into this match, they are in third place in their group after losing 2-1 to Cape Verde and drawing 2-2 with Egypt.
The possibility of a second straight group-stage exit is very real, and Chris Hughton’s team needs to put on a strong performance to save themselves from this humiliating outcome.
In the meantime, Mozambique, also known as the Mambas, are stuck at the bottom of the table after only earning one point in their first tournament since 2008.
Although Chiquinho Conde’s team has shown signs of improvement—they came up short against Cape Verde and Egypt, for example—their inability to keep a clean sheet has come at a price. In addition to giving their campaign new life, victory over Ghana would end a 12-year run without an AFCON victory.
Given that Ghana has lost all six of its AFCON matches, history does not favor either team in this match. Furthermore, Mozambique has conceded 31 goals in 14 games and has never been able to maintain a clean sheet in the competition. But Ghana cannot afford to undervalue the Mambas’ resolve because they have shown resiliency and determination in their performances thus far.
There will be no room for complacency in this high-stakes match as both teams will be playing for their lives. Mohammed Kudus, who scored a brace against Egypt, is a talisman for Ghana and will be essential to breaking down the Mozambican defense. With 96 caps for the Black Stars, veteran forward Andre Ayew might also play a significant role in Chris Hughton’s plans.
Mozambique, on the other hand, will be relying on playmaker Guima’s inventiveness and flair, as he has shown flashes of brilliance throughout the competition.
The Mambas will also greatly benefit from the experience of Ernani, their captain and goalkeeper, who has competed in several international competitions.
With the last act of Group B rapidly approaching, the match between Ghana and Mozambique takes on enormous importance. This matchup is a toss-up since both teams have the ability, motivation, and will to win.
Will Mozambique finally break their AFCON duck, or will Ghana stop their downward trend and secure a much-needed victory? There is no doubt that this match will provide an incredible spectacle that will keep spectators on the edge of their seats to the very end.
