AFCON Day 2: OGM News- The highly anticipated match between Ghana and Cape Verde kicked off with a flurry of action in the first half. The teams were determined to establish dominance early on, resulting in a series of exciting moments that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
Monteiro’s Strike Puts Cape Verde in the Lead
In the 17th minute, Cape Verde’s Jamiro Monteiro delivered a brilliant left-footed shot from the center of the box, finding the bottom left corner of the net. This skillful play not only showcased Monteiro’s prowess but also put Cape Verde in the lead. Despite Ghana’s efforts, the defense was unable to thwart the precise execution of the goal.
Following the goal, Cape Verde continued to press forward, creating scoring opportunities. Jovane Cabral’s attempt from outside the box and an impressive save by the Ghanaian goalkeeper added to the intensity. The first half remained action-packed, with both teams displaying determination and skill on the field.
VAR Drama and Near Misses Keep Fans on Edge
The 36th minute brought VAR into play as Majeed Ashimeru’s goal for Ghana was initially celebrated but overturned after a meticulous review. The decision favored Cape Verde due to an offside call, maintaining their 1-0 lead. The technological intervention added an extra layer of suspense and drama to an already thrilling match.
In the closing minutes of the first half, Ransford Königsdörffer of Ghana struck the right post, leaving fans gasping. The intensity reached its peak with Jordan Ayew’s right-footed shot going wide, and both teams engaging in a tactical battle to gain control. As the halftime whistle blew, Cape Verde held a slender lead, but the match remained unpredictable, promising an equally riveting second half.
The first half concluded with Cape Verde leading 1-0 against Ghana, setting the stage for an eagerly awaited second half. The match witnessed a mix of skillful plays, VAR controversies, and near misses, keeping fans hooked and anticipating more thrilling moments in the upcoming minutes.
Early Drama and Ghana’s Fight Back (46th – 57th Minute)
The second half kicked off with Cape Verde holding a narrow 1-0 lead over Ghana. In the 46th minute, Kevin Pina’s foul led to a free kick for Ghana, expertly taken by Ransford Königsdörffer. However, Cape Verde quickly retaliated as Pico won a free kick in the defensive half.
The intensity escalated in the 48th minute when Iddrisu Baba received a yellow card for a reckless foul, and Jamiro Monteiro secured a free kick in the attacking half. Bebé’s attempt in the 50th minute, following a set-piece situation, unfortunately, missed its mark, keeping the score unchanged.
In the 56th minute, the game took a dramatic turn as Alexander Djiku scored a crucial header for Ghana, equalizing the score at 1-1, assisted by Jordan Ayew. João Paulo and Ransford Königsdörffer engaged in a physical battle, resulting in a foul, but the subsequent delay was resolved in the 61st minute.
Tactical Shifts and Late Drama (62nd – 88th Minute)
Ghana introduced strategic substitutions in the 62nd minute, bringing in Ernest Nuamah, Iñaki Williams, and André Ayew. A foul by Deroy Duarte in the 63rd minute granted Jordan Ayew a free kick, but the tables turned as Duarte received a yellow card in the 64th minute for a foul.
In the 73rd minute, Kenny Rocha’s foul led to a free kick for Jordan Ayew, while Cape Verde earned a corner conceded by Alexander Djiku. The 75th minute saw another booking as Rocha received a yellow card. Willy Semedo entered the game, replacing Bebé, as the match resumed after a delay in the 77th minute.
The 88th minute brought suspense as Garry Rodrigues, assisted by Kenny Rocha, scored with a right-footed shot, giving Cape Verde a 2-1 lead. Salis Abdul Samed’s late substitution for Ghana added to the tension.
Rodrigues’ Heroics Secure Cape Verde‘s Victory (90th – 90th+10 Minute)
Garry Rodrigues continued to shine, narrowly missing a shot in the 88th minute. The 90th minute witnessed a flurry of events: Rodrigues scored his second goal, Osman Bukari replaced Jordan Ayew, and Rodrigues received a yellow card for excessive celebration.
Despite late efforts by Ghana, including missed headers and blocked shots, Cape Verde held on. The match concluded with Cape Verde emerging victorious with a 2-1 scoreline, showcasing their resilience and skill in this thrilling encounter.
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