In anticipation of the upcoming 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON 2023), Otto Addo, the former coach of the Ghana national team, has shared his perspective on the challenges posed by the Black Stars’ opponents in Group B. Addo has singled out Egypt as potentially the “easiest” team to face, drawing comparisons with Mozambique and Cape Verde.
Grouped alongside Egypt, Cape Verde, and Mozambique in Group B, Ghana faces a tough competition. However, Addo suggests that confronting Egypt, the favorite in the group, might present a more manageable challenge. Lower expectations in facing a team anticipated to perform well could play to Ghana’s advantage.
“I think the easiest game may be against Egypt because their team is very well-balanced. They are the favourites in this game so it is easier to stand behind when people don’t expect too much from you,” Otto Addo shared with GTV Sports+ about the AFCON.
He emphasized the contrasting difficulty in playing against so-called “small countries” with football education and solid defensive skills. Breaking down such teams, according to him, poses a significant challenge.
“Once we score a goal against these countries, it gets easier. It’s a long way and it’s hard work,” explained the man who led the Black Stars during the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Ghana is poised to commence its AFCON 2023 group stage campaign against Cape Verde on January 14, 2024, followed by matches against Egypt and Mozambique. The football community awaits an exciting and challenging journey for the Black Stars in the upcoming tournament.
AFCON 2023: Otto Addo’s take on Ghana’s Group B
