That time has come once again. Ghanaians have been pulling out their calculators as they try to make sense of the team's chances going into matchday three of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.

It was a disappointing start for Chris Hughton's side as they lost 2-1 to Cape Verde. In the second game against Egypt, Mohammed Kudus was at his best, earning a 2-2 draw with the record winners.

On Monday, Ghana have it all to do against Mozambique at 20:00 GMT.

Head-to-head

The four time AFCON winners have a solid record against the Mambas, winning four times and drawing twice in six meetings. Ghana has conceded just two goals against Mozambique, highlighting a solid defensive record.

What the managers said

Chris Hughton (Ghana): "We are aware of the magnitude of this game. This is a game we have to win. All we can do is to prepare and make sure we put in a level of performance that allows us to win the game."

Chiquinho Conde (Mozambique): "We will approach the game as if it were a final; Ghana's strength is in its individual abilities, but my team has assessed them and will identify the weak link in the team so that we can get the desired result."

Permutations

Ghana are currently third in Group B with a solitary point. In the case of a defeat to Mozambique, they will be sent straight home; a non-starter for Kudus and co.

If a draw arises, Ghana will at least be third on the log, unless Egypt loses by a two goal margin to Cape Verde, which will move the West African side to second. This, to many, is a very unlikely outcome.

In the case of a victory, Egypt would have to record a draw or a loss for Ghana to finish second. If the opposite happens, the Pharaohs would be second and the Black Stars would have to hope of becoming one of the four best third placed teams in the tournament.

Looking at the calculations, a win would be the most ideal.

The odds

Ghana currently has 1.70 odds of winning on Betway whilst Mozambique has 5.25 odds. This means the Black Stars are favorites to earn three points in this one.

Potential lineups

Ghana: Richard Ofori, Denis Odoi, Mohammed Salisu, Alexander Djiku, Gideon Mensah, Majeed Ashimeru, Baba Iddrisu, Mohammed Kudus, Joseph Paintsil, Ernest Nuamah, Antoine Semenyo

Mozambique: Ernan, Reinildo Mandava, Edmilson Dove, Mexer, Bruno Langa, Guima, Alfons Amade, Domingos Macandza, Witi, Geny Catamo, Stanley Ratifo