Former Manchester United player Bebe scored for Cape Verde in their 3-0 win against Mozambique at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. Ryan Mendes and Kevin Lenini also scored for Cape Verde at the Felix Houphouet-Boigny Stadium on Friday. Cape Verde’s victory secures their spot in the Round of 16 with one game to spare, having earned six points in two matches. The results put Ghana and Egypt on the Verge of exiting at Group Stages.
Ghana and Egypt at the Verge of exiting at Group Stages
However, this success comes at the expense of heavyweights Ghana, Egypt, and Mozambique. Both Ghana and Egypt must win their upcoming matches against Mozambique and Cape Verde to have a chance at advancing to the knockout stage. Egypt, with two points in two games, can secure progress with a victory. For Ghana, winning may not be enough, as they will also need Egypt to fail to win against Cape Verde. Another slim chance for progress exists if either team makes it to the list of the four third-best-ranked teams.
Cape Verde’s dominant display in AFCON 2024
Cape Verde’s national football team, the Blue Sharks, continued to impress in the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with a notable 3-0 victory over Mozambique at the Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny in Abidjan on Friday.
This triumph secures their place in the Round of 16, building on their earlier surprising win against Ghana.
The turning point came in the 32nd minute when Bedé scored with a right-footed shot from outside the area after a free kick. Cape Verde extended their lead in the 51st minute, with Ryan Mendes firing a right-footed shot into the bottom left-hand corner. Kevin Pina added a third goal with a shot from outside the penalty area, showcasing Cape Verde’s dominance.
Despite initial resistance from Mozambique, Cape Verde’s relentless pressure led to a comfortable victory. Bedé’s opening goal set the tone and boosted the Blue Sharks’ confidence.
This impressive performance has sparked hope and enthusiasm within the Cape Verde camp, establishing them as a team to watch in AFCON 2024. After unexpected victories against Ghana and Mozambique, Cape Verde emerges as a strong contender.
Could Cape Verde Replicate Zambia’s Historic 2012 AFCON Achievement?
Looking ahead to the Round of 16 against the third-placed team from Group C, questions arise about Cape Verde’s potential to replicate Zambia’s historic achievement in the 2012 AFCON. With numerous talented teams in the competition, the remainder of the tournament promises excitement and unpredictable outcomes, captivating football fans across Africa and beyond. The Blue Sharks have indeed left their mark on AFCON 2024, turning every match involving Cape Verde into a must-watch spectacle.