Ghana is bracing itself to host the Central African Republic on Thursday, September 7, in the final round of qualifiers for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), set to take place in Ivory Coast early next year.
In the current international break, the stakes are high as Group E features three countries vying for qualification to the 2023 AFCON, with Ghana leading the pack with 9 points. Following closely behind is Angola with 8 points, while the Central African Republic is in third place with 7 points.
Unfortunately, Madagascar is at the bottom of the Group E standings and is ineligible for the 2023 AFCON, regardless of their match result against Angola.
With so much on the line, the showdown between Ghana and the Central African Republic is undoubtedly the highlight of Group E. In their previous meeting in the group, both teams fought hard, resulting in a 1-1 draw.
With just two points separating them, neither side can afford a loss that would jeopardize their chances of reaching the 2023 AFCON.
Tactician Raoul Savoy, in charge of the Central African Republic, acknowledges that Ghana is the favorite, but his team is confident in their ability to defy the odds and surprise the Black Stars in front of their home fans.
Ghana's head coach, Chris Hughton, has been diligently preparing his squad for the upcoming clash, despite the setback of Joseph Paintsil's injury, which forced him to withdraw from the game. Coach Hughton remains optimistic that with the talent and quality in the remaining 24-man squad, Ghana can secure a victory.
Pressure mounts on the former Brighton & Hove Albion manager, as he seeks a convincing result after a somewhat unimpressive start to his tenure as Black Stars head coach.
The highly anticipated match between Ghana and the Central African Republic is scheduled to kick off at 4 p.m. at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium.
Ahead of the game, Ghanaians football enthusiasts shared their expectations ahead of this crunchy AFCON fixture
