The Black Stars would be in action later today as they tackle the Amavubi of Rwanda in the second qualifying game for the 2017 African Cup of Nations.
The game, to take place in the Rwandan capital of Kigali, would be between the top two sides in the group and would be an early marker of who would be top dogs in this group going forward.
Ghana has history with Rwanda in AFCON qualifiers that would shape the narrative going into this game. In 2003, the Rwandans handed Ghana a painful 1-0 loss that knocked us out of qualifying for Tunisia 2004; that was the last time Ghana failed to make the AFCON.
So the Stars would need to be in top shape to avoid the upset. Luckily, they have been on a roll this year. The first group game was a 7-1 demolition of Mauritius, whilst we placed second at the 2015 AFCON where most people would agree we were the best team.
In preparation for this game, the Black Stars beat Congo 3-2 in a friendly to open their new 60,000 seater Kintele Stadium.
Asamoah Gyan is a slight doubt for the game, whilst Dede Ayew makes his return after missing the first game through injury. With the form he’s in, he should be the one to watch for this game.
Black Stars coach Avram Grant believes his team should be cautious going into the game.
“Rwanda is a very good side and very tricky. They have very good players so we have to be careful. They went and got three points in Mozambique so we have to give our best on Saturday,” Grant said.
“I think it will be a tough match but we have to play good football so that we get a good result. What we have to do is to stay focused and concentrate on Saturday’s match.”
The game kicks off at 1330 GMT.
This post was published on September 5, 2015 8:19 AM
Our website, www.ghanacelebrities.com, uses cookies. The website uses analytical cookies to check the behavior of visitors and to improve the website on the basis of these data. In addition, third parties place tracking cookies to show personalized advertisements. Do not want to accept all cookies?
Read More