AFCON 2023: Chris Hughton disappointed with Cape Verde loss

Ghana head coach Chris Hughton has expressed disappointment after recording a defeat in the opening game of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The Black Stars shockingly lost to the Blue Sharks for the first time in a game they were hotly tipped to win.

READ MORE: AFCON 2023: Jordan Ayew blames inexperience BlackStars squad for Cape Verde defeat

Ghana was unfortunate to go behind as early as the 17th minute to a Jamiro Monteiro goal in the first half. 

Alexander Djiku pulled the BlackStars parity after rising highest to head home a Jordan Ayew cross but the Blue Sharks will have the final laugh through, substitute, Gary Rodrigues, who tapped into an empty net following a defensive mixup by the West African base country. 

Speaking at the post-match interview, Hughton was left disappointed by the turn of events in the opening game.

“I think it rocked us the goal that we conceded [that early] but I thought that we got back into the game and at that stage, it looked like we could go on and win it,” Hughton said.

“We are hugely disappointed with the result.”

BlackStars will hope for an improved performance as they take on Egypt on Thursday, January 18 in a game they have to win to keep their AFCON hopes alive. 

READ MORE: AFCON 2023: Ghana falls to Cape Verde in Group B

Cape Verde tops Group B with 3 points, Egypt and Mozambique follow up with a point each with Ghana at the base with no point.