Ghana’s hopes for a first Africa Cup of Nations title since 1982 began on the a disappointing note as they were beaten 2-1 by Cape Verde in their Group B opener at Felix Houphouet Boigny Stadium on Sunday night.
Things started positively for the Blue Sharks, who were making just their fourth AFCON outing, as they took the lead in the 17th minute courtesy of Jamiro Monteiro who tucked in Jovane Cabral’s rebounded shot.
Ghana had equalised in the 36th minute via Majeed Ashimeru’s powerful shot from outside the box. The Anderlecht midfielder’s first international goal was however ruled by VAR for offside.
The Black Stars eventually levelled things in 56th minute when Alexander Djiku headed in Jordan Ayew’s corner kick. Cape Verde however reestablished their lead deep in added time after a defensive mix up by the Ghanaian defence allowed an unmarked Garry Rodrigues to put the ball into an empty net.
Garry Rodrigues’ late goal gives Cape Verde all three points in a shocking victory over the black stars of Ghana. Ghana 1-2 Cape Verde ???????????? #Afrosport #AFCON2023 #TotalEnergiesAFCON #GHACPV AfricanFootball #LiveFootball pic.twitter.com/m24NG9W7kv
— AfroSport (@AfroSportTV) January 14, 2024
Bubista’s men will be hoping to book their place in the knockout phase when they tackle Mozambique in their next Group B game while Ghana have a tough fixture against seven-time AFCON champions Egypt
