In the upcoming 2023 AFCON tournament, Group B promises an exciting clash of football prowess, featuring the Cape Verde Islands, Egypt, Ghana, and Mozambique.
Blue Sharks of Cape Verde
The Blue Sharks of Cape Verde, led by the experienced coach Pedro Brito Leitao, fondly known as Bubista, are eager to make their mark.
Bubista, a former defender and captain of the national team, transitioned seamlessly into coaching after an illustrious playing career in Angola and Spain.
The backbone of the team is the formidable Mendes, the captain and most capped international player, having participated in the previous three Cup of Nations finals.
Cape Verde, with three prior final appearances (2013, 2015, and 2021), achieved their best performance in 2013 as quarterfinalists. Placed 73rd in the December FIFA ranking, they finished second in Group B during the qualifiers, trailing Burkina Faso.
Egypt, The Pharaohs
On the other side, Egypt’s Pharaohs, a football powerhouse, boast an impressive record with 25 previous finals appearances and seven championship titles.
Under the guidance of Portuguese coach Rui Vitoria since July 2022, Egypt is led by the iconic Mohamed Salah, returning after a heartbreaking loss in the 2021 semifinals to Senegal.
Ranked 33rd globally, Egypt dominated Group D qualifiers, securing their spot at the top ahead of Guinea.
Ghana, Black Stars.
Ghana’s Black Stars, a force to be reckoned with, enter the tournament with 23 finals appearances and four championship victories.
Headed by former Ireland fullback Chris Hughton, Ghana sits at 61st in the FIFA rankings. The team places its reliance on the skillful Mohammed Kudus, a key midfielder from West Ham United.
Mozambique, Mambas.
Mozambique’s Mambas, led by coach Chiquinho Conde, bring their unique football history to the tournament.
With four previous finals appearances and an emphasis on teamwork, Mozambique looks to make an impact. Coach Conde, a former player in three Cup of Nations tournaments, took the reins in late 2021.
Defender Reinildo, 29, from Atletico Madrid, will play a crucial role in their defensive strategy. Ranked 111th in the December 2023 FIFA rating, Mozambique finished second in Group L during the qualifiers, following Senegal.
Group B is set to be a thrilling spectacle as these four nations vie for glory in the 2023 AFCON tournament.
