AFCON 2023: Mohammed Kudus brace not enough as defensive lapses cost Ghana

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Mohammed Kudus returned to action from injury with an impressive performance as he struck twice for the Black Stars in their second group game in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) against Egypt

Mohammed Kudus starts against Egypt

 

The nail-biting encounter saw the four-time champions give away the lead twice as they played out a captivating 2-2 draw, showcasing a rollercoaster of emotions and remarkable individual performances.

Ghana, eager to bounce back from their initial 2-1 loss to Cape Verde, started the game on a positive note. Mohammed Kudus, displaying his attacking prowess, struck a powerful shot from outside the box on the eve of halftime, providing Ghana with a 1-0 lead after receiving a precise pass from Salis Samed.

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However, defensive lapses haunted Ghana when Inaki Williams’ unfortunate back pass was intercepted by Egypt, leading to an equaliser from Omar Marmoush. Marmoush skillfully maneuvered past the goalkeeper to level the score.

Undeterred, Kudus once again showcased his brilliance, receiving a well-timed pass from Denis Odoi and curling the ball into the far corner to regain the lead for Ghana, making it 2-1.

The seesaw battle continued as a lackluster performance from substitute Osman Bukari allowed Egypt to draw level once more. Mostafa Mohamed capitalised on Trezeguet’s cutback, sealing the match with a 2-2 deadlock.

With Ghana now holding one point and Egypt with two, the pressure intensifies for both teams as they look ahead to the final group game. Ghana will face Mozambique in a must-win encounter, aiming to secure victory and progress to the next stage of the tournament.