AFCON 2023: Ghana Boss Chris Hughton Assesses Mohammed Kudus’ Performance vs Egypt

• The hugely anticipated AFCON clash between Ghana and Egypt ended in a 2-2 draw
• Mohammed Kudus bagged a brace, while Mohamed Salah was forced off with injury
• Black Star manager Chris Hughton showered Kudus with praise after the game

Abidjan- Côte d’Ivoire. Mohammed Kudus produced an impressive performance in Ghana's 2-2 draw against Egypt in the Africa Cup of Nations.

The West Ham star scored twice, but his goals couldn't lead his side to a win. His manager Chris Hughton was pleased with that performance ahead of a vital game against Mozambique.

The Black Stars were looking to get back on track following a shock defeat to Cape Verde in their opening Group A game.

Shortly after Egypt's Mohamed Salah sustained an injury, Kudus scored a fine goal from the edge of the box to give Hughton's side the lead late in the first half.

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Egypt's Omar Marmoush equalized in the 69th minute, but the Pharaohs could only celebrate that goal for a few minutes before Kudus scored again. The former Ajax superstar's deflected shot went past Mohamed El Shenawy to give the four-time AFCON champions the lead.

Ghana's lead was cancelled by Mostafa Mohamed's tap-in from close range in the 74th minute.

The draw leaves Ghana in a precarious position. If they lose against Mozambique, they could be staring at another group stage exit. Ghana finished bottom of their group in the 2021 edition, per Opta Analyst.

Hughton on Kudus' performance

Hughton was impressed with Kudus' display in his post-match interview in the mixed zone.

"I think what we saw of Mohammed Kudus is a continuation of what people in England have seen of his club form. So, we are lucky at the moment that this is a player that is in really good form for his club form, and we are fortunate that he was able to continue that today," he exclusively told Sports Brief.

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Kudus has scored nine goals for West Ham this season so far, per Transfermarkt.

Although Ghana didn't win, Hughton felt it was the best performance under his tutelage.

I think because of the opposition. We know the strength of Egypt and them being one of the favourites to win. So, I think probably in my time here, I would say this is the best performance."

Ghana reached the semis in the 2017 edition and have not won an AFCON game since.

Ghana set AFCON record

Sports Brief earlier reported on Ghana setting an unwanted record following their 2-2 draw with seven-time AFCON champions Egypt.

The result means Ghana have now gone six games without a win in the AFCON, the longest they have gone without victory in the competition.

Ghana face Mozambique next, and anything other than a win will be disastrous.