ABIDJAN – In a dramatic turn of events, Ghana finds itself on the brink of elimination from the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after conceding twice in added time to draw 2-2 with Mozambique in their final Group B game on Monday.
Crystal Palace winger Jordan Ayew’s converted penalties had given Ghana a comfortable lead, but late goals from Geny Catamo and Reinildo Mandava secured a crucial point for Mozambique.
Despite leading 2-0 as the clock passed 90 minutes, the Black Stars’ hopes of progression were dashed by Mozambique’s spirited comeback.
In the other Group B match, Cape Verde and Egypt drew 2-2, leaving Ghana in a precarious position.
Ghana coach Chris Hughton, facing mounting pressure after a 2026 World Cup qualifying loss and a group-stage defeat to Cape Verde, expressed pre-match anxiety.
A draw against Egypt had reignited hopes, but the late collapse against Mozambique has left Ghana on the verge of a second consecutive AFCON group-stage exit.
Jordan Ayew’s early penalty provided the Black Stars with a solid start, and a second penalty, calmly converted by Ayew once again after Reinildo’s handball, seemed to secure the victory.
However, Mozambique’s relentless attacks finally paid off in added time, with Geny Catamo converting a penalty and Reinildo Mandava completing the comeback.
With just two points, the Black Stars face a challenging path to qualification as one of the four best third-placed teams.
The outcome hinges on the results of the remaining Group C matches, with Ghana’s exit potentially confirmed on Tuesday if Gambia and Cameroon do not draw.
Hughton and his team had hoped for a decisive victory over Mozambique, but the late collapse has intensified the scrutiny on the coach.
The veteran coach introduced changes during the match, bringing in Andre Ayew and reshuffling the lineup.
Ghana’s fate now depends on favorable results in other groups, adding an extra layer of tension to the AFCON tournament.
The Black Stars will be anxiously watching the upcoming matches to see if they can secure an unexpected route to the knockout stage.
