2023 Africa Cup of Nations: Egypt and Ghana Clash in Abidjan

January 14, 2023, Abidjan, Ivory Coast

The much-anticipated 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is underway in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, with Egypt and Ghana set to face off in their second match of the tournament. Both teams are coming off victories in their opening matches, and a win in this match would put either team in a strong position to advance to the knockout rounds.

Match Preview

Egypt, the seven-time AFCON champions, are the favorites heading into this match. The Pharaohs have a wealth of experience in this tournament, and they are led by Liverpool star Mohamed Salah. Salah is one of the best players in the world, and he will be looking to lead Egypt to their eighth AFCON title.

Ghana, meanwhile, is a rising star in African football. The Black Stars have not won the AFCON since 1982, but they have been consistently competitive in recent years. Ghana is led by Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey, who is one of the most talented young players in Africa.

Team News

Egypt coach Carlos Queiroz has made one change to his starting lineup from the team that defeated Nigeria in their opening match. Ahmed Hegazy has replaced Mahmoud Hamdy in central defense.

Ghana coach Otto Addo has also made one change to his starting lineup. Mohammed Kudus has replaced Kamaldeen Sulemana in midfield.

First Half

Egypt started the match brightly and had the first chance of the game in the 5th minute. Salah played a through ball to Ahmed Sayed, who fired a low shot just wide of the post.

Ghana grew into the game as the half went on, and they had a few chances of their own. In the 20th minute, Partey hit a long-range shot that was saved by Mohamed El Shenawy. Five minutes later, Kudus headed a cross from Baba Rahman just over the bar.

The half ended with Egypt and Ghana deadlocked at 0-0.

Second Half

The second half started much like the first, with Egypt having the better of the early chances. In the 50th minute, Salah again played a through ball to Sayed, who this time was able to get a shot on target. However, Ghana goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi was equal to the task, and he made a comfortable save.

Ghana continued to press for a goal, and they finally got their reward in the 70th minute. Kudus was fouled on the edge of the box, and Partey stepped up to take the free kick. Partey’s shot was well-placed, and it flew into the top corner of the net, giving Ghana a 1-0 lead.

Egypt tried to find an equalizer in the remaining minutes, but they were unable to break down the Ghanaian defense. The match ended 1-0 in favor of Ghana.

Post-Match Reaction

Egypt coach Queiroz was disappointed with his team’s performance.

“We didn’t play well today,” Queiroz said. “We made too many mistakes, and we were punished for them. Ghana deserved to win the match.”

Ghana coach Addo was delighted with his team’s victory.

“I’m very proud of my players,” Addo said. “They showed great character and determination. We knew that Egypt would be a tough opponent, but we were able to get the job done.”

Conclusion

Ghana’s victory over Egypt was a major upset, but it was a deserved one. The Black Stars were the better team on the day, and they were able to take advantage of Egypt’s mistakes. Ghana now has a great chance to advance to the knockout rounds of the AFCON, while Egypt will need to bounce back quickly in their next match.

Don’t miss the upcoming matches of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations and stay tuned for more exciting football action!