In their quest to secure a spot in the knockout stage of the 2023 CAF U23 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), the Black Meteors of Ghana face a crucial task of winning their final group game on Friday.

This follows their comprehensive 5-1 defeat against hosts Morocco at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.

With six points and sitting comfortably at the top of Group A, the Moroccans have already secured their place in the next round, leaving the Ghanaians to contend for qualification with Guinea, who now sit second in the group due to a better goal difference.

The Moroccans established their dominance early in the game, finding the back of the net three times within the first half-hour. Goals from Amir Richardson, Ismael Saibari, and Yanis Begraoui put them in a commanding position.

Despite a glimmer of hope for Ghana when Salim Adams scored in the 42nd minute, the Moroccans continued their relentless attack in the second half. Barcelona wonderkid Abdessamad Ezzalzouli extended their lead in the 48th minute, while Begraoui completed his brace, leaving no doubt about the outcome of the match.

Now, the Black Meteors find themselves in a must-win situation in their upcoming match against Guinea on Friday if they hope to progress to the next round. Guinea, who defeated Congo 3-1 earlier in Group A, pose a formidable challenge as they aim to secure their own place in the knockout stage. The stakes are high as Ghana strives to keep their tournament hopes alive.

Source: Graphiconline