In stoppage time, Ghana let a two-goal advantage go as Mozambique rallied for a thrilling draw at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The Black Stars outperform the Mambas on GD as a result of the outcome, finishing third in Group B, albeit their two points may not be sufficient for advancement.
Ghana needed a win since they were losing their last six tournament games and were on the verge of losing their next AFCON group stage encounter. Ivane Urrubal’s palms were stung by Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo in the first minute of play, demonstrating that Chris Hughton’s team recognised the task at hand.
Moments later, their aggressive intent was realised when Joseph Paintsil caught a trailing leg while dribbling between Mexer and Nanani, winning a penalty. After some thought, Libyan referee Mohamed Ibrahim appeared to have given a soft call, but Ghana captain J. Ayew showed no compassion, tapping the ball home for his 98th cap while Urrubal remained unmoved.
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With 37 AFCON appearances over eight successive tournaments, André Ayew passed the legendary Rigobert Song to become the all-time leader. His entrance at HT signified determination. After being warned, he signalled for calm among his teammates as Bruno Langa, the rampaging left-back for Mozambique, came near with a determined effort following Lau King’s cutback.
Ibrahim pointed to the spot once more, this time as Mohammed Kudus’ attempt collided with Reinildo’s arm, crushing the Mambas’ modest hopes just as they were gathering momentum. Once again, J. Ayew accepted responsibility, but this time he chose the opposing side, offending a tortured Urrubal.
After a 12-year break from the competition, it seemed unfair that Mozambique’s tournament would be defined by two penalties kicks. However, they had one of their own, as they scored late on in the game when A. Ayew handled in the box, allowing Geny Catamo to convert.
Amazingly, Reinildo’s perfectly timed header in stoppage time sealed the match and sealed Ghana’s fate. Ghana is destined to go out of the competition in the group stages for the second time in a row on two points, since Egypt managed to grab an equally dramatic point in the other tie in the group.
