Ghana and South Africa will meet in the third Group C game of the Africa Cup of Nations , on Tuesday at the Estadio De Mongomo, Mongomo.
With the balanced nature of Group C, the game will certainly determine, which of the two sides will pick one of the slots for the quarter final stage as both teams have equal chances of progressing.
Though South Africa seems to have history behind them, since two previous clashes have gone their way, Ghana may smile this time around taking into consideration the strength of the South Africans in this competition.
But Ghana captain Asamoah Gyan believes, history also plays a role in each game because it has serious psychological impact on players.
They are obviously one of the good sides in the competition as demonstrated in two previous matches against Algeria and Senegal having exhibited a lot of speed, skills and strength in those games.
Captain Asamoah Gyan admitted at pre-match conference that, the South Africans are very strong and skilful could pose a lot of threat to them.
In addition they have proven to be good passers of the ball with a lot of fluidity when attacking, but lacks the accuracy in front of the goal post.
Their greatest bane has been in attack and can be attributed to inexperienced on the part of their players most of whom are having their first tournament experience.
This will definitely go against them if the situation is not improved in their game against the Black Stars who have more experienced attackers.
Though Ghana’s defensive network has not been extra ordinary especially in the first game, against Senegal, possibly due to the 3-5-2 formation deployed by coach Avram Grant, it became more stable when Grant decided to use the traditional 4-4-2 system and this could pose much trouble for the South African.
Again, Ghana’s attack led by experienced captain Asamoah and his deputy Andre Ayew, will give the Black Stars a better advantage in the game as compared to the South Africans who might also miss the services of defender Thulani Hlatshawo, whilst captain Dean Furmanm also remains a doubt for the game.
However, taking into consideration the record of the South Africans, who have picked just a point out of two matches, the tendency for them to be underrated by the Black Stars looks possible.
But Andre Ayew, has stated in an interview that, they do at their own peril since the South Africans have what it takes to beat Ghana.
For coach Shakes Mashaba, the competition is far from over for his side, though he considers Ghana game a very difficult one.
The South African coach also admits that, the Black Stars are ahead of them with regards to experience, but will count on the enthusiasm and energy of his boys to overcome the Ghana challenge.
From all indications, it is going to be a battle of wits, skills, physical and mental strength but the records of 2015 AFCON puts Ghana ahead, though this does not favour the Black Stars.
SOURCE: William D. Ezah, GNA Special Correspondent, Mongomo, E. Guinea
