Ghana self-destruct at Cup of Nations as Cape Verde and Egypt advance

In a pulsating crescendo to Group B, Ghana threw away automatic qualification for the last-16 at the 2023 Cup of Nations allowing Mozambique to score twice in stoppage time to force a 2-2 draw.

Ghana let slip a 2-0 lead and a place in the last-16 from Group B by drawing 2-2 in Abidjan. AP - Sunday Alamba

The result - coupled with Egypt's 2-2 draw with Cape Verde - left Ghana in third place with two points and not even able to qualify for the second phase as one of the four best third-placed teams.

Egypt, who for long stretches of their match against Cape Verde, were straggling in third on the back of a 1-1 scoreline and Ghana leading 2-0 thanks to two penalties converted by Joran Ayew.

That scenario changed in second-half stoppage-time. Mostafa Mohamed collected Trézéguet's through ball and lobbed the goalkeeper Josimar Diaz Vozinha to spark wild celebrations on the running track around the stadium.

It was queried for a possible handball but confirmed to launch more delirium.

But the joy of 2-1 was short-lived. Cape Verde levelled through Bryan Teixeira to maintain their unbeaten record. But the happiness  was ultimately mutual.

Goal

Cape Verde progressed as pool winners and Egypt as runners-up after three draws.

"We fight for our country and this is the most important thing," said striker Trezeguet who was deemed man-of-the match for his second-half equaliser and assist for his side's second goal.

"I've been in the national team for 10 years and I am ready to give everything for my country."

Egypt will play the runner-up from Group F on 28 January in San Pedro while Cape Verde will stay in Abidjan to take on the third-placed team from either Group A or Group D on 29 January.

"We are very happy as we were able to show some character," said Cape Verde boss Bubista.

"I said before the game against Egypt hat we had a responsibility to the tournament even though we had already qualified.

"We wanted to win this match but we couldn't. Neverthleless we are happy to have claimed the group."