D-Day

Much hype has been made of this afternoon’s Ghana-USA matchup, certainly the most important match in Ghana’s football history. The Stars are confident that they will perform and they have already begun their plans for Brazil and reminded fans that they are “the Brazil of Africa”. But, against the U.S. today, can they win?

Remember, boppers, that a tie just might not be good enough. Certainly a tie and an Italy win would get us in. But Italy has every reason to play for the same distinguished draw that Argentina played for yesterday, even if it means risking playing Brazil in the second round. Like Portugal, they may even rest players. And the Czechs are expected to be back at full strength for the attack. So, a victory may be necessary (and who wouldn’t savor facing Croatia, or better, Australia in knockouts).

So, does/can Ghana match up? In goal, certainly Richard Kingston has been a revelation this Cup. And the U.S. has fewest shots on goal in the tournament (a measly 1!). The key will be continued solid defending by the crew that kept the Czechs in order on Saturday, especially a second fine performance from Silla.

In the midfield, the U.S. is looking tired and disorganized, and Ghana have a real opportunity to press their strength. The key will be on Eric Addo to step up on the World stage and work with Essien and Appiah to get work done.

And we will need to have some attack, as Asamoah Gyan’s appeal for reversal of his second card was denied. Matthew Amoah, wake up! We will need one from you bad today.