2023 AFCON: Ghana suffer two consecutive group phase exit after Mozambique collapse

The Black Stars have crashed out of the ongoing 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament for the second consecutive time.

Ghana surrendered a two-goal advantage in their final Group B match, settling for a 2-2 draw and putting their tournament fate in jeopardy. Despite a Jordan Ayew double from the penalty spot that initially put Ghana in control, Geny Catamo and Reinildo’s goals denied them a crucial three points.

Ayew initiated the scoring for Ghana with a calm penalty conversion after Joseph Paintsil was fouled, giving the Black Stars an early lead. Despite an opportunity for Antoine Semenyo to break the deadlock before that, the Mozambique goalkeeper tipped his effort over the bar.

Ghana, after taking the lead, seemed to ease off, allowing Mozambique more possession without capitalizing on it. Majeed Ashimeru’s injury forced a substitution, with Iddrisu Baba taking his place.

While Ghana held the lead, Mozambique emerged stronger in the second half, nearly equalizing with a wide header and a Richard Ofori save from Bruno Langa’s attempt.

Ghana secured a second penalty after Reinildo’s handball, with Ayew calmly converting to double the lead.

In the closing minutes, Andre Ayew’s handball awarded Mozambique a penalty, leading to a 2-1 score.

A late avoidable corner conceded by Richard Ofori was headed in by Reinildo, levelling the match at 2-2.

In the other Group B game, Egypt and Cape Verde played out a draw game which meant the Pharaohs finished second in the group, one point ahead of Ghana.

The four-time AFCON winners have now suffered back-to-back exits from the tournament in the first round.