2014 World Cup team preview: Ghana

Published on: 27 May 2014
2014 World Cup team preview: Ghana
Group G

Group G – Germany, Portugal and United States

Tournament odds: 200/1

Four years in South Africa Ghana narrowly failed to become Africa's first semi-finalists when they lost on penalties to Uruguay in the quarter-finals, having missed a spot-kick in the last moments of extra-time.

While they possess a strong squad, the group draw was not kind, arguably the toughest draw for any African side in Brazil.

The Black Stars will open their campaign against the USA on 16 June, then play Germany and finish their group fixtures against Portugal. A bad start would heap the pressure on Ghana and some critics have suggested they may not be up to the task.

Midfield is an obvious strength, where they have a glut of excellent options. Michael Essien is the most familiar of these names and since his return from injury and will look to put behind him a disappointing club season.

He will be ably supported by the likes of Juventus’ Kwadwo Asamoah, Milan’s Sulley Muntari and FC Schalke’s Kevin-Prince Boateng, so expect plenty of energy and invention in the middle third.

Essien in particular has been bullish about their chances, targeting a semi-final spot, but if they can emerge from the group they will be a handful for anyone.

How they got there

Ghana were convincing qualifiers, conceding just three goals in six goals, two of those away to Egypt in their only defeat.

The Black Stars were on the goal-trail, hitting 18 goals in their group.

Kwadwo Asamoah
Kwadwo Asamoah
Key player Kwadwo Asamoah

After an eye-catching season for Juventus, Asamoah offers the same energetic presence in this Ghana side.  His tireless running whether on the flank or in central midfield has been absolutely crucial to the Biaconeri’s unprecedented recent success and will look to translate that on the international front.

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