Cape Verde continued their impressive run in the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) by defeating Mozambique 3-0 on Friday at the Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny in Abidjan.
The win secures their place in the competition’s Round of 16.
The Blue Sharks, who had already stunned Ghana 2-1 in their opening match, took the lead in the 32th minute after a right-footed shot from outside the area by Bedé following a free kick.
They consolidated their grip on the match in the 51st minute when Ryan Mendes fired a right-footed shot from the center of the box into the bottom left-hand corner.
With a third goal from Kevin Pina, who fired a shot from outside the penalty area into the bottom left-hand corner, Cape Verde’s dominance throughout the match was evident in their possession and numerous scoring opportunities.
Mozambique offered initial resistance but succumbed to the relentless pressure exerted by the Cape Verdeans.
Bedé’s opening goal proved to be a turning point, fueling the Blue Sharks’ confidence and paving the way for their comfortable victory.
This impressive performance has ignited hope within the Cape Verde camp for an extended run in the tournament.
Shocking a tournament favorite — Ghana — in their opening game and now comfortably disposing of Mozambique, the Blue Sharks have surprisingly announced themselves as a team to watch — and fear — in the ongoing continental tournament.
The tournament’s remaining matches promise even more excitement and unpredictable outcomes. With several talented teams vying for the ultimate glory, the 2024 AFCON is poised to deliver a captivating spectacle for football fans across Africa and beyond.
Meanwhile, as Cape Verde now prepares to play its round of 16 game against the third-placed team from Group C, observers and fans of African football will be tempted to wonder if this impressive and composed Cape Verdean team has what it takes to follow in the footsteps of the Zambians who shocked Africa — and the world — at the 2012 AFCON.
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