The Black Stars could not pick their first win at the tournament in four years as they bowed out in a bizzare manner
Ghana failed to defeat Mozambique as they shared the spoils 2-2 in the final game of Group B in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations at the Stade Alassane Ouattara in Abidjan on Monday.
One goal each from Jordan Ayew in either half of the game was all what the Black Stars needed to make a huge statement at the tournament and book their place in the next round of the competition but a late twist of event turned the game on its head.
Chris Hughton made a single change in the squad that shared the spoils 2-2 with Egypt last week. Athletic Bilbao striker Inaki Williams was dropped and Joseph Paintsil took his place in attack.
Paintsil did not need more time to prove that the decision to start him was the right one as he won Ghana a penalty by the 13th minute after he was brought doen by Matola.
Jordan Ayew stepped up and perfectly slotted the ball in as Mozambique goalkeeper was left rooted to his spot. The goal marked Ayew’s 20th goal for Ghana since making his debut in 2010.
Kudus came close to double the scoreline by the 33rd minute but his shot went wide while Antoine Semenyo also saw his effort blocked.
After break, Andre Ayew was brought on to replace Paintsil and that substitution stabilized the Black Stars midfield.
The Black Stars were awarded another penalty as Jordan Ayew perfectly scored once again.
Late in the game, Mozambique were awarded a penalty after Andre Ayew was adjudged to have handled the ball. Geny Catamo stepped up and scored from the spot.
Reinildo Mandava broke the hearts of Ghanaians as he snatched a late equaliser to make it 2-2 and end Ghana’s road in the competition.
