AFCON 2023: Mohammed Kudus scores twice but Black Stars draw against Egypt
The Black Stars twice surrendered their lead to draw in their second group game against Egypt at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Mohammed Kudus scored a brace in the fixture but individual mistakes from the team gave the three points away resulting in a 2-2 draw against the Pharaohs.
The Black Stars made an aggressive start and took the game to the Egyptians but failed to open up their defence.
Kudus had his first glimpse at goal as the goalkeeper easily saved his attempt from just outside the box.
Both teams threatened very little for the majority of the opening half, but Egypt had the majority of the ball.
Rui Vitoria was forced into a first-half change after Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah couldn’t continue after picking up what looked like a hamstring injury.
Shortly after going off, Kudus made the difference as he scored his debut goal in the continental championship with a sublime curler which beat the goalkeeper to give Ghana the lead.
The West Ham United man received a pass from Salis Abdul Samed before beating his marker to open the scoring.
Egypt almost found their way back into the game minutes after the recess but their goal from a setpiece was ruled out for offside.
Richard Ofori was also called into action moments later but the Orlando Pirates man was on hand to make a good save.
Egypt found their equaliser at last through Marmoush who took advantage of a back pass by Inaki Williams, rounded off the goalkeeper and played the ball into an empty net.
However, their joy was short-lived as Kudus scored once again, this time on the receiving end of a pass from Denis Odoi.
He restored the team’s lead but for the second time, Ghana lost advantage of their lead.
Trezeguet robbed substitute Osman Bukari off the ball before setting up a teammate for the equaliser to make it 2-2.
Despite a late attempt from both teams, there was no winner at the end of the full time with the points being shared.
The Black Stars will now be counting on the last game against Mozambique to secure qualification to the next round of the competition.
