Ghana's World Cup Dream Faces Final Test
June 22, 2006
The Black Stars from Ghana, who stunned the Czech Republic 2-0, would reach the second round -- and a possible showdown with reigning champion Brazil -- by defeating the US in the Group E match on Thursday. But the game is one the Americans must win for any chance to advance.
"The chemistry is right and it's working out well," Ghana's midfielder Otto Addo said about the team. "If we beat the United States, anything is possible."
A draw might be enough to send the Africans into the round of 16, depending on goal-difference scenarios and the result of Thursday's Italy-Czech Republic match.
But Ghana's coach Ratomir Dujkovic, a 60-year-old Serbian who calls this the most important match of his life, made it clear his Cup debutantes prefer to settle matters themselves in the only group where all teams can still advance. He said the US team should worry.
"The United States will suffer because we are strong and we are not afraid of anyone," Dujkovic said. "Ghana is young and tough." Dujkovic said the team would not play for a draw.
"We always play offensive football and we play to win," he said.
Americans need to disrupt Ghana
US coach Bruce Arena knows Ghana's strengths all too well, from Chelsea midfield maestro Michael Essien to their fleet-footed forwards.
"Hopefully, we can deal with their team speed," Arena said. "That's my biggest concern. They have a very competitive squad and one of the best players in the tournament in Essien."
US midfielder Landon Donovan said it will be vital for the Americans to disrupt Ghana, most likely with the physical style used in the 1-1 draw against Italy that saw three ejections for only the fourth time in Cup history.
"Speed is a big factor," Donovan said. "They are very athletic and will try to use that to their advantage."
Donovan said when Ghana was allowed to play with a lot of rhythm, it was a very good team.
"Our goal has to be not to let that happen," he said.
Ghana carries hopes of a continent
Ghana's Matthew Amoah, a Borussia Dortmund forward, is ready for a US defense that features Oguchi Onyewu, a center back of Nigerian heritage.
"The United States play quick football, but we have had time to prepare," Amoah said.
While the US team struggles for attention at home, Ghanaians know they carry the hopes of a continent with them in the quest to advance.
"It would be fantastic for us," Derek Boateng said. "We're looking forward to that because it's very important for us and the whole country, the whole of Africa."