Ghana endured a heartbreaking conclusion to their Africa Cup of Nations group stage, surrendering a two-goal lead to draw 2-2 against Mozambique. Jordan Ayew’s penalty kicks had put Ghana in a comfortable position, but a late collapse saw Geny Catamo and Reinildo Mandava score in stoppage time, leaving Ghana’s qualification hopes hanging by a thread.
With just four minutes remaining, Ghana conceded a penalty as Andre Ayew was judged to have handled the ball inside the box. Catamo converted the penalty in the 91st minute, narrowing the gap. In an unexpected turn of events, Mandava’s header in the dying moments secured a dramatic 2-2 draw, denying Ghana automatic qualification.
The draw left Ghana with only two points from three matches in Group B, finishing behind Egypt, who also drew 2-2 with Cape Verde. Ghana’s qualification chances now depend on results in other groups, making their path to the knockout stages uncertain.
Despite Jordan Ayew’s penalty heroics and an initial 2-0 lead, Ghana’s lackluster performance throughout the tournament raises questions about their ability to progress further. Mozambique, despite finishing bottom of the group, showcased resilience against a heavyweight like Ghana and demonstrated their potential in the competition.
Ghana’s late collapse not only puts their coach, Chris Hughton, under increased scrutiny but also brightens the hopes for the host nation, Ivory Coast, to advance as one of the best third-placed teams. The AFCON drama continues with unexpected twists, making each match crucial in determining the fate of participating teams.
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