Ghana suffered a heartbreaking setback in their quest to advance to the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, squandering a 2-0 lead until extra time in a Monday match against Mozambique.
The Black Stars under head coach Chris Hughton made a pivotal lineup change, bringing in Joseph Paintsil instead of Iñaki Williams.
Early in Ghana’s incursion, Mozambique’s goalkeeper, Ivane Oficial Urrubal, made an incredible save to deny Antoine Semenyo’s attempt.
The Black Stars broke through in the 15th minute when Jordan Ayew converted a penalty kick awarded to Paintsil.
Despite Mozambique’s attempts to respond in the second half, Ghana’s goalkeeper, Richard Ofori, demonstrated his ability with a crucial save against Bruno Alberto Langa.
The Black Stars increased their lead in the 70th minute when Jordan Ayew converted another penalty.
Mozambique responded in the 90th minute, with Geny Catamo scoring from the penalty spot after Ghana’s captain, Andre Ayew, committed a handball.
In a stunning turn of events during stoppage time, Mozambique’s Reinaldo Mandava headed home Shaquille Momad Nangy’s corner kick, resulting in a dramatic draw.
This unexpected result denied Ghana a place in the last sixteen, leaving fans and pundits to reflect on the missed opportunity and the twists of football fate.
