Has the Tide Turned?

There were certainly sighs of relief in Accra last night after the fumes of yesterday’s heady victory began to wear off. And, we can keep our heads up strong with the knowledge that a victory over tough little minnows Zimbabwe would likely propel the Stars into the CAN knockout rounds.

But have we seen enough to know that the worst is really over?

Matthew Amoah showed the precision for which he earned his fame in World Cup qualifying with the acute laser that gave Ghana the winner early on, and the defense showed none of the lapses that plagued it early in the year, especially against Nigeria.

In fact, when viewed objectively, it could be said that Ghana have now faced two of Africa’s premier sides in tournament atmosphere at a neutral location and have performed with Warrior spirit in both engagements. With a victory versus Zimbabwe and perhaps one win in the knockout rounds, Ghana will be able to lay claim to its coveted status as African heavyweight rockers.

But, as far as Germany goes, I am not yet convinced. There remains the pesky issue of health, which one hopes will resolve itself in good time. There is also the more troubling lack of offensive productivity and panache. Amoah can finish technically with precision, but he lacks the vision and charisma of an Eto’o or a Drogba, let alone a Shevchenko.

More important is the question of preparedness for the bright lights of the international arena. Even head technician the Grandmaster Ratomir Dujkovic will be unable to guide the Stars into matches versus the far more internationally seasoned Italian, American and Czech sides. There is a fear that Ghana will appear hucksters from a small town appearing in the big city with a hayseed sticking out of their mouths and barefoot.

All they will bring is their iron forged team first ethic and the Pride of the African continent. Can that possibly be enough?