Ghana vs Cape Verde Prediction: We are backing Ghana to get off their AFCON journey to a flying start

The upcoming match between the Black Stars of Ghana and Cape Verde at the Stade Félix Houphouët Boigny Stadium on Sunday is an exciting one. Ghana has been a strong contender in the past, but their recent performances have been underwhelming. Meanwhile, Cape Verde is eager to surpass their previous performance in the competition back in 2022. It'll be interesting to see how both teams perform on the field.

FIFA Ranking: 61st

Last five games: LLWLD

The four-time AFCON winners will reach for their fifth when they kickstart their campaign tomorrow. This is their twenty-third appearance in this competition, and their recent outing was cut short in the group stage. The Black Stars have struggled with form lately, winning one of their last five games in all competitions—Ghana march here with a disappointing performance against Namibia at the Baba Yara Stadium as they settled for a share of the spoils in front of their home supporters. 

Ghana qualified for the AFCON Tournament after wrapping up the group phase with twelve points from a possible eighteen. 

Chris Hughton's men will be desperate to surprise the naysayers in this competition, and with the quality they possess, we expect them to go far this time. 

Ghana's likely starting lineup: Ofori; Seidu, Djiku, Salisu, Mensah; Amartey, Baba; J. Ayew, Kudus, Paintsil; Williams.

Key Player: Mohamed Kudus 

FIFA Ranking: 73th

Last five games: LLDWL

The Blue Sharks are gearing up for a thrilling second successive AFCON tournament, marking their third appearance in the competition. Despite only achieving this feat twice before, they have proven themselves to be a formidable force to be reckoned with. Cape Verde has also secured their place in the tournament for the second year running, finishing a solid second in their qualifying group. Although they've encountered some challenging games recently, including a loss against Tunisia, the Blue Sharks remain confident and focused on achieving success in the upcoming tournament.

Bubista men were knocked out of the competition in the 2022 edition; displaying good form, poise and defensive prowess, the team were only able to score one goal while exiting at the group stage of their second appearance in the finals of the tournament, while remaining unbeaten in any Cup of Nations group stage match.

Cape Verde's likely starting lineup: Vozinha; Semedo, Borges, Pico, Stopira; Rocha, Costa, Monteiro; Mendes, Rodrigues, Bebé.

Key Player: Ryan Mendes

I think it's interesting to note that the Black Stars of Ghana have not had the best run in recent times. They haven't won many games, and they've had a particularly difficult time against Cape Verde, losing both of their previous meetings. Over their previous two meetings, Ghana have won both games, scoring three times. Despite having a solid squad, they haven't been able to lift the trophy since 1982. It's even worse now that they've dropped to the 61st spot on the FIFA Ranking under the leadership of Chris Hughton. 

On the other hand, Cape Verde has also been struggling, with only one win in their last six games. They lost their recent match against Tunisia in a friendly game, so they might be a bit demoralised heading into this fixture. However, we can't underestimate them, as they've proven to be a tough side to beat. Looking at the two teams, Ghana has a more impressive squad, with players like Kudus and the Ayew brothers who can cause problems for any defence. Despite both teams' recent struggles, I expect Ghana to secure the maximum points here, although it won't be an easy game.

This game will end in a BTTS as both sides' defence have been breached in recent games.

We expect Ghana to win and score more than a goal for 2.30.

Good luck!