Mozambique denied Benin their first win at the Orange Africa Cup of Nations after coming back to draw 2-2 in their Group C encounter on Tuesday in Benguela.
The Mambas came from two goals down to draw two all with the Squirrels thanks to an inspiring second half performance, and to keep their chances on course.
The Beninois commenced the game on a high note with an output that gave an indication of their readiness to break their winless streak at the continental fiesta, by firing from all angles with marksman Razack Omotoyossi leading the onslaught.
Their efforts yielded dividends on 13 minutes when Omotoyossi, scorer of eight goals during the qualifying rounds broke the deadlock from the spot after Mozambican goalie Cossa Albino had fouled him in the penalty area.
The Beninois maintained pressure and the second goal came five minutes later as Mozambican defender Dario Khan scored an own goal in an attempt to clear his lines during one of the raids by the West Africans.
With defeat staring at them, the Mambas lifted up their game and succeeded in reducing the deficit on 28 minutes through midfielder Almira Lobo who headed home from a corner kick.
The second half belonged to the Mambas as they forced the Squirrels to chase their shadows. Led in attack by veteran captain Manuel Bucuane nicknamed “Tico Tico,” they kept the Benin rearguard on their toes in their quest for the equalizer.
On 55 minutes, the much sought after equalizer came through Goncalves Fumo who connected home from a fast throw-in after Benin goalie Yoann Djidonou had cleared the ball away.
It was the Mambas all the way for the remainder of the game and captain Bucuane was denied the winner in the closing stages by Benin goalkeeper Djidonou, who spilled away the formers goalbound low pile effort, to the dismay of the Mozambicans.
Mambas captain, Bucuane, who made his Africa Cup of Nations debut in 1996 in South Africa was adjudged the Most Valuable Player of the match.
The result means Egypt occupy the apex of the standings on three points, Benin and Mozambique in that order on one point each with Nigeria at the bottom pointless.
Benin will face neighbours Nigeria on Saturday, January 16 whilst Mozambique face holders Egypt at the Ombaka Stadium in Benguela.
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