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After defeating Mozambique 3-0 on Friday afternoon, Cape Verde became the first team to advance to the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Round of 16.
The Blue Sharks, who had earlier won their first game against Ghana with a last-minute comeback, proved themselves against the Mambas and put on a dominant display.
The former Manchester United player Bebe opened the score with a strong shot that found the back of the net, and he was a key player in Cape Verde’s victory. Earlier in the game, the 33-year-old showed tenacity by trying a long-range free kick that struck the woodwork.
In the 32nd minute, he finally gave Cape Verde the lead with an incredible goal from an even more difficult angle, rendering the Mozambique goalkeeper ineffective.
Cape Verde maintained their lead even after a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review resulted in a modification of the referee’s ruling regarding a penalty call to Mozambique.
In the 51st minute, Ryan Mendes scored Cape Verde’s second goal by taking advantage of a defensive error. Kevin Lenini’s spectacular long-range goal to seal the victory solidified Cape Verde’s outstanding performance.
Securing their place in the Round of 16, Cape Verde secured six points in Group B. With the certainty of winning their group, the Blue Sharks will play Egypt on Monday with the luxury of going into the next round with nothing to lose.
Similar to their opponents Ghana on Monday, Mozambique will need to win at all costs in order to advance to the next round of the competition.
They will undoubtedly be a team to watch in the subsequent AFCON 2023 stages thanks to their outstanding performance in the competition.
Source: Ghanatodayonline.com
