Former Man Utd Star Bebe’s Stunning Free-Kick Powers Cape Verde to AFCON Last-16, Securing Top Spot in Group B

Bebe showcased his talent with a spectacular 40-yard free-kick, propelling Cape Verde to a decisive victory over Mozambique and securing the first spot in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations last-16. The former Manchester United player, now with Rayo Vallecano, unleashed a powerful strike that eluded the grasp of Mozambique’s goalkeeper Ernan Siluane, who could have done better.

Captain Ryan Mendes capitalized on a defensive error to extend Cape Verde’s lead, and Kevin Pina sealed the triumph with an impressive long-range shot into the top corner in the match held in Abidjan. Despite Geny Catamo’s efforts for Mozambique, including winning a penalty overturned by VAR and hitting the crossbar with a free-kick, the Mambas struggled to break through. They managed only two shots on target, one of which forced a save in injury time.

Cape Verde’s victory guarantees them the top spot in Group B, surpassing former champions Egypt and Ghana, even with one game remaining. The Blue Sharks will face North African giants Egypt in their final group match, with the assurance of advancing to the last 16, where they will meet a third-placed finisher from Group A, C, or D.

Cape Verde’s unexpected success in a group featuring football powerhouses Egypt and Ghana has defied expectations. Ranked 73rd globally, the Blue Sharks have now progressed from the group stages in three of their four Africa Cup of Nations appearances.

Bebe, who switched international allegiance from Portugal and made his Cape Verde debut in 2022, demonstrated his prowess by hitting the woodwork with a free-kick before his stunning long-range goal. The islanders maintained control thereafter, limiting Mozambique’s opportunities, with Witi registering their only shot on target until Geny tested the goalkeeper in injury time.

While Egypt and Ghana, with two and one point respectively, still have the chance to advance as two of the best third-placed teams, Mozambique, currently without a win in Africa Cup of Nations history, could also reach the knockout stages by defeating Ghana in their upcoming match.