Coach Kwesi Appiah says the Black Stars will not fear any opponents in Wednesday's 2013 AFCON draw

By Patrick Akoto

Ghana coach Kwesi Appiah says the Black Stars will not be hoping to avoid any big guns in Wednesday’s draw for the 2013 African Cup of Nations.

The West African heavyweights will know their opponent in the group phase of the continental showpiece.

The team however will avoid defending champions Zambia, host South Africa and perennial under-achievers and favourites Cote D’voire after being seeded for the tournament.

But the Black Stars could however face two former champions Nigeria and Tunisia as well as 2010 quarter finalists Angola or Mali in the group phase.

There is also the potential of being drawn in the same group with either Algeria or Morocco as well as Burkina Faso and Niger.

Despite the daunting  task that could confront the team, coach Appiah insists the Black Stars are not afraid of  any opponent that they will be drawn with.

“As was evident in the qualifiers, every team has the potential to pose problems and so it will be wishful thinking to dream of playing some particular teams,” Appiah said

“I believe to be the best, you should be prepared to face the toughest and that is exactly what we want to do. While we respect all the teams, we have no fear for any of them and we are looking forward to the draw.

“The best antidote to beat the anxiety and nervousness at the group stage is good preparation and we already have our plans on the drawing board and once we get to know who we would be playing at the group stage, we will set out to execute our plan.

“Previous records have no place in this event, else, Cameroun would have qualified ahead of Cape Verde. There are lessons to be drawn every time and I to keep my fingers crossed and wait for our group mates for AFCON 2013.

“Records are good as guides but that is all they are at this point. What will matter most when the roll call is done is the form with which you report for duty,”

The Black Stars will be seeking their fifth African crown in 31-years in South Africa.