Following Ghana’s 2-1 loss to Cape Verde at the AFCON, an unidentified individual reportedly attempted to assault Black Stars head coach Chris Hughton.
Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Richard Ofori started in goals for the Black Stars as they got off to a disappointing loss to the island country.
Ghana appeared content with a share of the spoils following Alexander Djiku’s headed nullification of Jamiro Monteiro’s first-half marker in the 56th minute. But, in a cruel twist of fate, Cape Verde capitalised on defensive lapses deep into stoppage time.
Substitute Garry Rodrigues capitalised on the opportunity, coolly slotting the ball into an open net to stun the approximately 12,000 Ghanaian supporters in attendance.
According to Ghanaian award-winning journalist Saddick Adams, who is in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, covering the AFCON, chaos erupted after Ghana’s loss to Cape Verde on Sunday, January 14th, as tensions boiled over.
A frustrated fan, whose identity remains undisclosed, was apprehended in Abidjan for assaulting the Brit at the team’s hotel.
Ghanaian diplomats are said to have swiftly intervened to protect Hughton from any harm. Local authorities then detained the assailant.
WHAT THE ATTACK ON BLACK STARS COACH MEANS FOR HUGHTON
This unexpected development undoubtedly casts a dark cloud over Ghana’s tournament hopes, further highlighting the mounting pressure surrounding the Black Stars’ performance.
Ghana’s fate currently hangs in the balance. With a crucial clash against Egypt looming on Thursday, anything less than a victory could spell an unwelcome early exit for the four-time continental champions.
Their next assignment will certainly not be an easy one as they take on a Pharaohs side that also needs a win to keep their tournament hopes alive.
Liverpool star Mohamed Salah saved Egypt from an embarrassing defeat, levelling terms from the penalty spot seven minutes into injury time to snatch a 2-2 draw against Mozambique in Group B.
The late penalty was awarded after a VAR check for a foul on Mostafa Mohamed, and Salah’s strike denied Mozambique a historic first-ever AFCON win.
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