In a crucial Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Group B showdown, Cape Verde and Ghana are set to clash with everything on the line for both sides. Mozambique, currently ranked 113th by FIFA, and Ghana, a powerhouse at 60th in the rankings, find themselves level on points after drawing with Egypt and losing to Cape Verde in the previous rounds.
Mozambique, at the bottom of Group B, faces a must-win situation to boost their chances of advancing. However, even a victory may not be enough, as an Egypt win over Cape Verde would limit Mozambique to a potential third-place finish, leaving them anxiously awaiting qualification as one of the four best third-placed teams.
Adding to Mozambique’s challenge is their historical record against Ghana, having never defeated them in six encounters (D2, L4). The Mambas’ task is made more daunting by Ghana’s defensive struggles, conceding twice in both group games and winning just one of their last seven internationals.
Ghana, seeking their fifth AFCON title, must maintain their unbeaten record against Mozambique to keep their knockout stage hopes alive. History favors Ghana, as their only win in the last 11 AFCON matches came against a team outside FIFA’s top 100.
Players to watch include Clésio for Mozambique, who has an undefeated record when scoring, and Ghana’s Mohammed Kudus, in prolific form with six goals in as many appearances. With both teams showing defensive vulnerabilities, a high-scoring encounter is anticipated, as reflected by the fact that all but one of Ghana’s last six AFCON matches saw both teams finding the net. As the tension rises, this pivotal Group B clash promises to be a thrilling contest with major implications for the knockout stage.
