Cape Verde delivered a late-game upset, securing a stunning 2-1 victory over Ghana in their opening clash of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) at the Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny.
Ghana, determined, to redeem themselves following a series of poor results dating back to two years ago in the 2021 AFCON where they bowed out of the group stage faced another disappointment.
In the 17th minute, Jovane fired a promising shot, leading to Jamiro Monteiro finding the back of the net after Richmond Ofori’s save left the Blue Sharks a chance to bite the cherry one more time.
Ghana responded with a spectacular long-range goal from Majeed Ashimeru in the 36th minute, seemingly putting them in the lead. However, referee Jean-Jacques Ndala, after a VAR review, ruled the goal out for offside, leaving the Ghanaian players frustrated once again.
The Black Stars finally found the breakthrough in the 56th minute when Alexander Djiku rose highest to meet a well-executed corner kick from Jordan Ayew. Djiku’s precise header found the left post, leveling the score at 1-1.
As the match seemed destined for a draw, Cape Verde delivered a late blow in stoppage time. Benchimol’s pass to Garry Rodrigues saw the Cape Verdean slotting the ball into an empty net, sealing a dramatic 2-1 victory.
With this unexpected defeat, Ghana now face the challenge of bouncing back in their next encounter against Egypt. The Pharaohs, who also had a 2-2 draw with Mozambique, will be seeking redemption, setting the stage for an exciting and competitive journey in Group B of the AFCON 2023.