Ghana Vs Nigeria: Preview (Ghana 2008)

February 1st, 2008 | by: Emmanuel | View Comments

Really I am surprised the Ghanaians are rating Nigeria so high. As a Nigerian I want the super Eagles to get past Ghana but within me I don’t think we can achieve it. We have not been inspiring enough. There are so many reasons why I don’t think we can get past the Black stars.
So I was confused to hear that Abedi Pele is having sleepless nights about Ghana Playing Nigeria as he was afraid Ghana could be knocked out of the championship by Nigeria. That would be a big blow for the Ghanaians especially as host country. The entire country is looking at their team winning this cup and if the worse comes to worst, get to the final at least but losing in the quarter Finals will sure be unbearable to the Ghanaian populace.
I don’t mean to say Nigeria has nothing to offer. But we have all watched the Super Eagles play against Ivory Coast and Mali.
We have watched them struggle to beat the weeping boys of Group B (Benin), do you think that team you saw has what it takes to beat a highly motivated side like Ghana playing at home?
This is what I think. Definitely a game between these two is like a game between Nigeria and Cameroon. The Ghanaians are not going to rely on the fact that oh! We beat them 5-1 in a friendly game therefore we can do same. The Ghanaians have their eyes on the trophy and they also know that to do that, Nigeria is one obstacle they must overcome. The super Eagles have a way of springing surprises and with their performance so far, there is a chance they may be slightly underrated by the Ghanaians. This will be disastrous if it happens.
Injuries will particularly favour no one over the other. Osaze who has been most inspiring for the Super Eagles will be out due to suspension and on the Ghanaians side, I think I also heard Appiah will be out.
What the Eagles have in attack, the Ghanaians have in midfield. The Eagles’ defense is one of the best in this competition haven conceded just once in three games. The Ghanaians also have a good record in this department. However, there is a likely return of Kanu Nwankwo for Nigeria; one player I know the Ghanaians dread so much (if fit to play). The victory against Benin surely increased confidence in the Super Eagles camp and could fire them up in the game.
Despite all these the Ghanaians still look more likely to carry the day. Most bookmakers give it to Ghana. However, if the Black stars under rate these Eagles, they will surely pay for it.

Emmanuel Is the
admin of Naija Football Fans Forum.