Egypt Are CAN 2008 Winners

Cameroon 0 - 1 Egypt

Egypt deserved their win in Accra, but Cameroon - who had held out well for the most part - eventually only fell victim to a simply suicidal goal...

Egypt are the 2008 champions of Africa after defending their 2006 title and lifting the hallowed trophy for a record sixth time.

After over 75 goalless minutes, Egypt finally managed the strike that they deserved on the balance of play, but one that came in such strange circumstances.

It was dreadfully ironic - not least for Rigobert Song - that in a tournament so laden with brilliant strikes and wonder-goals, that the most decisive clash of all would be settled not by attacking genius, but by opportunism and an absolute howler from Cameroon stopper Song.

To start with, though, things were slightly more even.

Within two minutes, Cameroon had pressed forward twice, with Eto'o blasting a header over the bar from close range after Geremi's fine cross, with the referee seeing no deflection off an Egyptian defender.

Egypt tried to hit on the break soon afterwards, but all too often their first touch let them down in the final third.

Mbia conceded a free kick six minutes in after a foul on Abou Trika just outside the box, and it looked as if Espanyol 'keeper Carlos Kameni was about to face his first test. This he did, but the stopper held Hosny's effort well.

Kameni had to be on guard again to keep Moawad's admittedly weak effort out seconds later. and Abou Trika had another effort palmed wide 12 minutes in.

Alex Song had to limp off with an injury on the quarter-hour, with Binga coming on, necessitating a reshuffle in the midfield.

It was an afternoon of long-range efforts, with Geremi clipping a free-kick goalwards from 25 yards, only for El Hadary to save, albeit without confidence.

Then, on the break, poor defending and some fine teamwork saw Motab go one-on-one, only for Kameni to save. Abou Trika then inexplicably blasted the rebound over the bar.

Egypt's play had been nervy all over the pitch, but as the 20 minute mark came and went, they began to rediscover their structured approach to the game, and thus appeared more secure both with and without the ball. Chatto had to be at his best on more than one occasion to halt these attacks with a last-ditch challenge.

Cameroon, meanwhile, couldn't find the final ball, with Emana of particular culpability when he fluffed a great chance to play Eto'o through on goal on the break.

After a spell of midfield play, Eto'o eventually did receive a through ball, albeit one that he had to take around Shady Mohamed. From his acute angle out on the left, he could only drill a shot wide of the far post.

Then came the best chance of the game so far. A tremendous ball over the top found Motab one-on-one with Kameni, only for the forward to hit the ball straight at the 'keeper. The rebound came the striker's way, too, but a timely intervention saw the chance disappear.

As the half wore on, it became increasingly cagey, with Egypt's long-range efforts now either flying over the bar or straight into Kameni's hands. As such, it was no surprise when the half ended 0-0, with the most notable moments being injuries, necessitating plenty of stoppage time in the heat of the afternoon.

After the break, Amr Zaki came close down the left, only for his narrow-angled effort to be parried and then cleared by Cameroon. The break displayed the Indomitable Lions' woes, as even though they managed to get the ball forward, Eto'o was without support, and was fortunate to even get a corner.

Egypt then enjoyed their own spell of corners at the other end, and one of these eventually culminated in a superb long-range shot that left Kameni, unsighted, scrambling to save.

The Pharoahs were beginning to dominate the midfield play, although a lack of a final ball was still letting them down, most of all when Motab should have found the unmarked Abou Trika in the box, but blasted his cross far too hard.

Motab then came off for Zidan, with the Egyptians intent on changing the game - and they so nearly did.

Hosny very, very nearly managed to break the deadlock with a powerful header - admittedly born of poor defending - but with Kameni nowhere, his far-post effort smacked off the post.

M'Bami came on for Epalle, joining Idrissou (on for Emana) to become the Lions' third sub, and Cameroon had to use what they had.

But the pace of the game was starting to decline, with only speculative crosses to Idrissou really rousing the crowd. Admittedly, one was a fine ball in from M'Bami, but the Duisburg man could only sky his header.

Then, incredibly, Cameroon threw it all away.

More accurately, Rigobert Song did. The defender, the former champion, the father, the emblematic captain, threw it all away.

Inexplicably, he dallied on the ball under pressure from Zidan, failing to snuff out an Egyptian counter. The Hamburg man, winning the ball with a tremendous show of strength, managed to play the ball across the edge of the box for the onrushing Abou Trika, who gratefully side-footed home into an empty net. Egypt deserved their win on the balance of play, but what a way to get it!

Cameroon had to think fast, but their cross on the break soon after conceding was easily gathered by the rock-steady Al Hadari.

They could feel hard-done-by a few seconds later as, right on the edge of the box, Eto'o and Shady both went up for the ball, with the Barcelona striker's overhead kick seeing the ball hit Shady's hand. The referee promptly gave a free-kick against Cameroon, presumably for high feet. Regardless of what it was for, the Lions' players and coach alike were disgusted.

Cameroon then managed to split the defence with some good passing play down the right, with M'Bia being able to get the shot on, only for El-Hadari to push it to safety.

Egypt had begun to show a bit of nerves, sitting back on the edge of the area, as Cameroon enjoyed their only truly creative spell in the game. However, even with corners they were unable to test the 'keeper overmuch, and Egypt set themselves up for the counter.

Here, they were caught offside as stoppage time began, betraying the level to which Cameroon had pushed forward. Yet again, though, there was no end product.

Egypt deserved their win. After a somewhat rushed and tetchy start, they regained the shape that has made them so tough to beat - and sometimes so impressive on the attack - throughout this tournament.

M'bia did well to hold up the ball in the box and try a snapshot with 90 seconds to go, but he could only sky his effort wide as the exhausted Cameroonians threw the dice.

Rigobert Song had the chance to become a hero just seconds from the end, but the captain - inevitably - could only head over the bar. The game was over.

Cameroon, meanwhile, were second-best for most of the game, but arguably didn't deserve to lose like this. When "real" chances came their way, they dealt with them. But if one gives away gilt-edged chances against champions, one cannot be surprised when they take them.

CAN 2008 UPDATE : Ghana VS Ivory Coast

Hosts Ghana came from behind to claim a consolation third-place finish at the Africa Cup of Nations after beating Ivory Coast in a six-goal thriller.

Sulley Muntari's swerving 25-yard free-kick gave Ghana the lead on 10 minutes before Ivorian Boubacar Sanogo hit back with a quick-fire brace.

Quincy Owusu-Abeyie 's equalised after half-time with a solo effort before Junior Agogo struck on 80 minutes.

Ghana's Hamanu Draman then sealed the win with a 25-yard shot on 85 minutes.

It is the best continental campaign for Ghana since they finished as runners-up at the 1992 Nations Cup held in Senegal.

Though the game was a non-event for many, the local crowd in Kumasi turned out in numbers to see their beloved Ghana play, in what many had hoped would be the two teams contesting the final.

And they witnessed a goalscoring feast as two of the pre-tournament favourites scrapped for the consolation prize.

Another superb goal was added to the list of crackers from this year's Nations Cup after only 10 minutes.

Muntari let rip with a 25-yard free-kick that swerved round the defensive wall and into the top corner, past a helpless Tiasse Kone.

The Elephants, driven on by captain Didier Drogba, were not to be outdone though, and they were soon back in the game when Kader Keita showed great vision to play a through ball to Sanogo.

The Werder Bremen-man strode into the Black Stars' box to place his shot past Kingson from 15 yards to equalise for the Elephants.

Sanogo's effort was the 94th goal of the 2008 tournament and made the Ghana event the highest scoring in Africa Cup of Nations' history.

The game was now dominated by the men in orange and a great double save was needed from Kingson to deny Salomon Kalou, who shot from the edge of the area, and then Drogba who pounced on the rebound with 30 minutes gone.

Drogba forced another save from Kingson again seconds later, but this time there was no stopping the rebound as Sanogo stretched to direct the ball in and claim his second.

The game was wonderfully open and Sanogo was only denied his hat-trick by the Ghanaian crossbar which he rattled on 38 minutes.

Ghana started the second half keen to get back on level terms, with Draman proving a thorn in the Ivorian's side on the right flank.



But the game's pace dropped markedly from the first half with a paucity of goal-scoring opportunities.

Then with 20 minutes left to play Owusu-Abeyie picked up the ball in the centre of the pitch and sprinted past two Ivorian defenders into the area to slot home and make it 2-2.

With penalties looming, the Kumasi Stadium was alive with cheers again and bizarrely suffered an invasion of insects that choked Michael Essien amongst others.



Agogo then bagged his third of the tournament when he was played through with a clever pass from Essien to complete the simplest of finishes from 10 yards.

Draman then put the icing on the cake when he cut in from the flank and shot from twenty yards out, only for his shot to take a wicked bounce off the turf to beat the diving Kone.




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Ghana: Kingson, Sarpei, Pantsil, Mensah, Addo (Barusso 90), Annan, Essien, Muntari, Draman (Afful 89), Agogo, Baffour (Quincy 20).
Subs Not Used: Adjei, Gyan, Kingston, Asamoah, Ayew, Kumordzi, Dauda, Asare, Alhassan.

Goals: Muntari 10, Quincy 70, Agogo 80, Draman 85.

Ivory Coast: Tiassa Kone, Boka, Zoro, Fae (Dindane 83), Romaric, Tiene, Zokora, Sanogo, Kalou (Gervinho 73), Drogba, Keita (Toure Yaya 64).
Subs Not Used: Barry, Toure, Gohouri, Arouna Kone, Meite, Bakari Kone, Loboue, Djakpa, Eboue.

Goals: Sanogo 24, 32.

Ref: Jerome Damon (South Africa).

CAN 2008 Preview: Ghana - Ivory Coast

Loser’s Final

Many soccer analysts had predicted that both the Elephants of Cote d’Ivoire and the Black Stars of Ghana would clash in Sunday’s final, but after two dramatic semi-finals encounters the tables have turned around spectacularly.

Both teams are meeting, but it’s the in third place playoff, or the losers' final!

Still In Shock

The shock around the Ohene Djan stadium after Alain Nkong’s goal gave the Cameroonians victory was tangible, with the hosts thus falling short at the second to last stage.

But to the neutral, such a sense of surprise could not even compared to that which pervaded the air in Kumasi when tournament favorites, the Ivory Coast were mercilessly dealt with by the defending Champions, the Pharaohs of Egypt.

The hosts have received the bulk of the coverage. Many Ghanaian supporters had expected their team to get to the final, so it was no surprise that defeat saw many verbal arrows fired in the direction of the squad and coach. Claude Leroy has been at the centre of many of these criticisms, with local journalists upset over his team selection for the game.

In all fairness to the well-traveled French coach, his options were quite limited, with several key players ruled out of the encounter.

Captain John Mensah had picked up a straight red card in the quarterfinal encounter against Nigeria, while Laryea Kingston and striker Asamoah Gyan were both ruled out due to injury.

The side therefore had only one out and out striker, Junior Agogo, while Michael Essien had to leave his natural midfield position to play as a makeshift central defender.

If the Ghanaians felt hard done by their loss, then the Ivorians surely did not know what hit them after the 90 minutes were over in Kumasi.

Kader Keita’s wonder strike was just about the only smiling point for the Elephants on the night, as Hassan Shehata’s wards ran riot. Didier Drogba was rendered an anonymous fellow, and the weak point of the Ivorians was exposed for the world to see.

Regaining Pride

In today’s game both teams will attempt to regain their pride, and the usual dull affair that characterizes third place playoff matches would be substituted for an entertaining match-up. The countries are neighbors and the stadium in Kumasi will likely be filled to capacity for the occasion.

In a further twist, both teams might attempt to give starting shirts to players who had been on the bench previously.

TEAM NEWS

Ghana

Coach Claude Le Roy will have his Captain John Mensah available for selection again, but Asamoah Gyan and Laryea Kingston are still very much doubtful to feature for the Ghanaians in this game.

Belgium-based defender Nana Kwasi Asare and local favorite Harrison Afful should get an opportunity to showcase their skills and talents.

Birmingham City goalkeeper Richard Kingston should remain in the number one jersey for the Black Stars, as Le Roy will be very much interested in winning this game.

The defensive line will witness the return of captain John Mensah, who should be assisted by Hans Sarpei, Harrison Afful and West Ham United’s wing back John Paintsil.

Michael Essien should return to his midfield role alongside Sulley Muntari, Ahmed Barusso of Galatasary and fan favorite Haminu Dramani.

Junior Agogo and Dede Ayew should hold the attacking line for the Ghanaians.

Ivory Coast

Coach Gerard Gili has an array of stars on his bench, and there is a direct replacement for every single position on the pitch available, save the goalkeeping role.

Barry Boubacar, who plays for Lokeren, suffered an injury in the first half of the game in Kumasi, with replacement Stephan Loboue not exactly covering himself in glory as a substitute. Nonetheless, he should remain in goal for the Elephants.

The defensive line should see the return of Marc Zoro, who will be joined by Emmanual Eboue, Arthur Boka and Abdoulaye Meite.

The midfield should feature Didier Zokora, Emersae Fae, AbdelKader Keita and possibly Christain Koffi Ndri.

In attack may be the much-sidelined Arouna Kone alongside Werder Bremen forward Boubacar Sanogo, with Drogba given a rest.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Ghana

Michael Essien - The Chelsea player has been the strongest point forthe Ghanaians so far in the tournament, although the decision of Claude Leroy to shift him into the central defensive position in the last game took the bite out of the Ghanaian attack. He should return to his normal role today and bring back life to the Black Stars.

Ivory Coast

AbdelKader Keita - The Olympique Lyonnais man was all over the pitch during his team’s 1-4 loss to Egypt and crowned his efforts with an absolute screamer of a goal. Though the strike wasn’t enough for victory, he will want to make sure his efforts count for something in today’s encounter.

PREDICTION

This encounter is going to be a keenly contested affair, as both teams will want to leave the tournament with some form of dignity at the very least.

There will be lots of goals in this game as the players will want to give their all on the field of play.

I expect the Ivorians to clinch this one as they are more tactically disciplined than the Ghanaians. The strength of their bench is much deeper than that of the Black Stars, too.

The Ghanaians will give their best in front of their home fans, and would not want to disappoint them for a second time, but I don’t think mere resolutions will be enough to save them.

Ghana 1 - 3 Ivory Coast

Can 2008 Update : Cameroon Vs Tunisia

The Indomitable Lions of Cameroon have steadily grown in stature and gameplay since that opening game defeat at the hands of the Pharaohs of Egypt. This time, they face another North African foe that plays almost the same pattern as the Egyptians, and the Lions know that a loss here will mean a tournament exit.

The Lions have made easy meat of their last two opponents at the competition, trouncing the Chipolopolo boys of Zambia 5-1, and Eto’o breaking the all-time goal scoring record in the 3-0 victory over Sudan. Truthfully, though, they have not given a particularly strong performance in any of those matches.

The Cameroonians have had a quiet build up coming into this championship, unlike other editions where they were always touted amongst the favorites to lift the trophy. Indeed, they have been somewhat in the shadows of the likes of Ivory Coast, Ghana, Nigeria, Egypt, and even Senegal.

This silent entry could be a tactical approach that could see the Lions entering into the finals “unnoticed”.

They would, however, have to get by the Carthage Eagles of Tunisia first.

The Tunisians come into this game as Group D leaders; a group that included the highly fancied Senegalese, Perreira’s South Africa and the strong Angolans. The Carthage Eagles were able to ward off all opposition from these teams to top the group.

The side has improved steadily as the tournament progressed and coach Roger Lemerre, who had come under serious criticisms coming into this championship, will be confident about his side’s chances ahead of this one.

These two sides are giants in African football - in the past four editions of the tournament, these two countries can account for three trophies. But the Cameroonians have failed to make it past the quarter-final stage in the last two editions, while the Tunisians could not in the last edition. This game would see one of them improving on their recent performance in the competition.

TEAM NEWS

Cameroon

The Lions will be have a full house for this game as they do not have injury worries, so I expect coach Otto Pfister to field a very strong side for this one.

Espanyol goalkeeper Carlos Idris Kameni should be in goal for the Lions.

The defensive line will be held by the “father” of Cameroonian football, Rigobert Song, alongside German-based defender Timothee Atouba, Reading’s Andre Bikey and Joel Epalle.

The midfield should be bossed by Newcastle’s Geremi Njitap, with support from Modeste Mbami, Alexandre Song and Achille Emana.

All-time ANC leading goal scorer Samuel Eto’o Fils would hope to extend his goal scoring tally today, and he would pair up with Joseph desire Job of Nice.

Coach Otto Pfister will line his wards out in a 4-4-2 formation for this game.

Tunisia

The Tunisians will probably be playing a mixed line up from two of their games played so far. They would most likely field the defence that played against the Teranga Lions of Senegal, with the attack line that devastated the South Africans.

That means Chermiti would be relegated back to the bench for Toulouse striker Santos. Medhi Nafti could miss this game: there are rumours that the player had a reoccurrence of an injury that left him out of the team’s opening game against Senegal.

The impressive Ben Fraj could also be left out of the starting line-up for the Tunisians in today’s game.

As for those who do play, in goal for the Tunisians should be Hamdi Kasraoui of Esperance.

The defence will be marshaled by Birmingham City’s Radhi Jaidi, alongside Karim Haggui of German club Bayer Leverkusen.

Radhouane Feldi of Etoile du Sahel and Wissem Bekri of Esperance would complete the back line for the Tunisians.

The midfield should expectedly be held by Joawhar M’Nari, Yassine Mikari, Medji Traore and Chaouki Ben Saada of Bastia in France.

Toulouse striker Francileudo dos Santos will pair with the highly talented Yassine Chikhaoui in attack for the Tunisians.

The Tunisians would also file out in a 4-4-2 formation pattern for this game.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Cameroon -Samuel Eto’o Fils: The Cameroonian striker has been in devastating form in this tournament, battering in five goals in only three matches so far. He will be the star man for the Indomitable Lions as they attempt to reach the semi finals for the first time in 6 years.

Tunisia - Francileudo dos Santos: The Toulouse man has been under-fire since his inclusion in Roger Lemerre’s squad, but a brace in his second game against South Africa has justified the striker's place in the team. He would be the man the Tunisians will look towards for the goals in today’s game.

PREDICTION

This game is going to be a fast-paced encounter as both teams have very pacey forwards. The Cameroonians have so far not been able to coordinate their midfield properly in the tournament, though, and this could count against them in this match.

However, they have the physical stamina to play on for a longer period than the Tunisians.

Whoever can keep up with the fast pace of the game up till the mid stages of the second period should carry the day. My best bet will be the Cameroonians for this one.

Cameroon 2:1 Tunisia

Ten-Man Ghana Seal Historic Nigeria Win

Ghana 2 - 1 Nigeria

In what had already been billed as the match of the tournament, the cards and goals flowed freely. In the end, Ghana prevailed past Nigeria 2-1 in what was an incredibly exciting encounter...

Clearly this was to be a heated derby, as Muntari found himself on the end of a foul from Obinna Nwaneri just after kickoff, resulting in a small amount of "handbags."

But while it was physical, it wasn't gung-ho, at least to start with. Indeed, with so much at stake, neither side was apt to take undue risks.

It took a quarter of an hour for the first real chance to emerge, with Muntari playing a fine ball across goal, only for Yobo to clear it.

Ten minutes later, though, it all kicked off.

After some fine play, Michael Essien hit the post oon the 25 minut emark after a tremendous give-and-go with Asamoah Gyan.

Then, Junior Agogo had a great chance just a minute later as Ghana turned the screw. He, however, could only see his effort tipped wide by Ejide.

It was quite a strong spell for Ghana, but Nigeria showed that they are no makeweights by hitting back. Yakubu almost managed to go one on one with Kingson, before he turned provider by slipping a through ball to Getafe's Ikechukwu Uche. Despite the latter's great run, the finish was poor, and it stayed 0-0.

At least for a minute, for no sooner had that chance ben mupped up than Addo conceded a penalty, apparently for shirt pulling against Yakubu. The Everton man himself stepped up and duly netted it, and suddenly Ghana ere in trouble.

Indeed, Nigeria looked the stronger side going into half time, with Uche and Yakubu linking up well, but Ghana's undoubted class shone through right on the stroke of half time.

That's when Michael Essien grabbed an equaliser. The Chelsea man both placed and powered a header after Owusu-Abeyie's cross to level the scores.

Right after the break, Obi Mikel attempted to show his teammate how it was done, almost capitalising on Uche's through ball - and some poor defending - only for Kingson to smother the ball at the last second.

That error reminded both teams that risks were inappropriate, and the game slowed down - at least until the hour mark.

For Ghana were down to ten men just then, John Mensah preventing a clear goalscoring opportunity by fouling Odemwingie just outside the box.

Taye Taiwo came inches away from opening the scoring from the ensuing free-kick, with Kingson's last-gasp save keeping his side in it.

His near-namesake Laryea Kingson joined the fray in place of Asamoah, dropping back to midfield and in turn allowing Essien to take a place in defence.

Strangely enough, that seemed to lend a bit more shape to the Ghanaians, and certainly more steel. Spurred on by Michael Essien's encouragement, they closed down the Nigerians with gusto, albeit sometimes a bit too much.

For things were beginning to get a bit heated - admittedly, for both sides. In one incident fifteen minutes from time, Obi Mikel picked up a booking after hacking down Annan, only for Annan to raise his hands to the Chelsea star.

In terms of play, though, Ghana had one great chance through Agogo ten minutes from time, only for the Nottingham Forest man to fluff his finish at the last second.

That made it all the more surprising when he was the man to give his side a lead seven minutes from the end. Muntari's low cross found the predatory forward lingering at the far post, and Agogo was so delighted with his close-range effort that his overcelebration was deemed worthy of a booking.

On came Nsofor for Obi Mikel as Nigeria boss Berti Vogts rolled the dice, and Nigeria poured forward. Shittu did well to float a cross in two minutes from time, only for Muntari, dropping back to defend, to head clear.

But other than a couple more half-chances from corners, the wealth of Nigerian bodies pressing forward could provide little - indeed, Nigeria needed Ghana to give them one last hope by conceding a free-kick 25 yards out two minutes into stoppage time.

The ball eventually reached Yobo in the box, but his finish was lacking, and the match ended with the hosts in a state of ecstacy.

CAN 2008 Preview: Guinea - Ivory Coast

Odds In Ivorians' Favour

There are very few games in global football these days that you could confidently say should go this way or that way. However, this quarterfinal encounter between these two West African teams is perhaps one such match.

The Ivorians, for their part, have sent the strongest message out about their intentions to lift the African Nations Cup at the end of the tournament.

The team has been dominant in all their games so far in this tournament. Most recently, a 3-0 victory over Mali in a game they did not need to win, contested with a partially second-string lineup, showed the depth within this Ivorian side.

They have run through all their opponents with a certain ease that makes one wonder if any team can stop them from winning this championship. Their game play has been consistent and cohesive, with the players showing real commitment to the team's overall cause of lifting the trophy.

However, coach Gerard Gili has affected modesty over his side's chances in today’s game, but he must truly be confident of The Elephants' abilities to clinch this one.

"We will go into this game with no apprehension but with a lot of respect for our opponents," Coach Gerard Gili told Reuters.

"We know it is going to be a difficult game as it's a knockout match and we will remain humble. However, we have a squad that has long been preparing for this type of encounter." he added

Searching For A Semi-Final Spot

But somewhere in Sekondi, another Frenchman, Robert Nouzaret, is plotting the downfall of this dominant Elephant; a team he has had two previous spells with as head coach.

However, he admitted that meeting them later on would have been better.

He told Reuters, “I am happy to meet them, of course, but I would have preferred to play them in the final in Accra. However, playing Ivory Coast is a good thing for my players.

"They know there is no room for mistake against such a team so I think they will be all the more focused."

The Syli Stars of Guinea bounced back from a poor opening performance to end the hopes of the Atlas Lions of Morocco by reaching the quarterfinal stage.

The Guineans came into this tournament with their eyes firmly set on a semi-final spot. But what stands between them and that goal is an Ivorian side that has yet to drop a point so far.

Life Without Pascal!

Pascal Feindounou will be furious with himself for that careless action during the game against Morocco that has confined him to the stands for this one.

The inspirational captain is undoubtedly the driving force behind this Guinean side; this was extremely evident in the team’s game against Namibia, for which he was suspended. They lacked cohesion and purpose in their gameplay without the highly talented midfielder. Thus, it will be interesting to see how they play today against a turbo charged Ivory Coast side.

But Souleyman Youla has promised that the Guineans would seek a win even without the St Ettiene man.

"When he is on the field, every ball goes through him," admitted Youla.

"Everybody knows how important a player Pascal is but we don't have a choice, we have to win without him and welcome him back for the semi-finals."

On paper, the Ivorians ought to be scared of the Syli Stars, as they are placed two spots below them in the continent on the current FIFA ranking. But surely even the Guineans won’t be thinking of that now. They would be more interested in perpetuating the biggest upset possible in this year’s tournament.

TEAM NEWS

Guinea

Bulky Celtic defender Bobo Balde is doubtful for this one as he is still nursing a thigh injury he picked up the team’s last game against Namibia. Thus the vice-captain may join suspended captain Feindouno on the sidelines.

Aside from these two issues, the Guinean side have few worries, as the squad is still intact.

In goal for the Stars should be Kemoko Camara, who is presently unattached to any club.

The defence of the team should be marshaled by stand-in-captain Dianbobo Balde (barring injuries) along with Mamadou Dioulde Bah, Ibrahima Camara, and Oumar Kalabane.

The midfield would be held by Mohamed Sacko, with Daouda Jabi providing support in the defensive midfield position for the Guineans. Ismael Bangoura and Naby Soumah should feeding the attack line from out wide.

The attack Guineans is likely to be led by the French-based duo of Fode Mansare and Souleyman Youla.

The Guineans would play a 4-4-2 formation on paper, but I am almost certain Robert Nouzaret would field only Souleyman Youla up front, with Fode Mansare dropping back to help the midfield for a good part of the game.

Squad

Goalkeepers: Kemoko Camara (unattached), Naby Diarso (Satellite FC, Guinea), Naby Yattara (RACS Couillet, Belgium)

Defenders: Dianbobo Balde (Celtic, Scotland) Habib Jean Balde (Reims, France) Alseny Camara (Rodez, France) Ibrahima Camara (Le Mans, France) Mamadou Dioulde Bah (Racing Strasbourg, France) Mohamed Alimou Diallo (Sivasspor, Turkey) Daouda Jabi (Trabzonspor, Turkey) Oumar Kalabane (Manisaspor, Turkey)
Kamil Zayatte (Young Boys Berne, Switzerland)

Midfielders: Mohamed Cisse (Bursaspor, Turkey) Pascal Feindouno (St Etienne, France) Samuel Johnson (Ismaili, Egypt) Mohamed Sacko (Etoile Sahel, Tunisia) Naby Soumah (CS Sfaxien, Tunisia) Kanfory Sylla (Sivasspor, Turkey)

Strikers: Ismael Bangoura (Dynamo Kiev, Russia) Karamoko Cisse (Verona, Italy) Victor Correa (Cherbourg, France) Fode Mansare (Toulouse, France) Souleymane Youla (Lille, France)

Ivory Coast

There is still no tangible news as to the fitness state of Arsenal defender Kolo Toure, so Marco Zoro may continue after a positive showing against Mali.

Most of the regulars that were rested in the game against Mali should be back in the starting line-up.

In goal for the Ivorians we should expect to see Boubacar Barry.

The defence would be composed of Arsenal fullback Emmanuel Eboue, Marc Zoro, Arthur Boka, and Abdoulaye Meite of Bolton Wanderers.

Yaya Toure will undoubtedly beat the heart of the Ivorian midfield, alongside Emerse Fae and Didier Zokora.

The attack line is almost certain to be headed by captain Didier Drogba, along with his Chelsea team mate Salomon Kalou and Haruna Dindane of Racing Lens.

Gerard Gili would stick with his 4-3-3 formation.

Squad

Goalkeepers: Boubacar Barry (Lokeren, Belgium) Tiasse Kone (Africa Sports, Cote D'Ivoire) Stephan Loboue (SpVgg Greuther Furth, Germany)

Defenders: Arthur Boka (VfB Stuttgart, Germany) Constant Djakpa (Pandurii Targu Jiu, Romania) Emmanuel Eboue (Arsenal, England) Steve Gohouri (Borussia Moenchengladbach, Germany) Abdoulaye Meite (Bolton Wanderers, England) Kolo Toure (Arsenal, England) Marc Zoro (Benfica, Portugal)

Midfielders: Emerse Fae (Reading, England) Christian Koffi Ndri (Le Mans, France) Siaka Tiene (St Etienne, France) Gneri Yaya Toure (Barcelona, Spain) Didier Zokora (Tottenham Hotspur, England)

Strikers: Aruna Dindane (Racing Lens, France) Didier Drogba (Chelsea, England) Salomon Kalou (Chelsea, England) Abdelkader Keita (Olympique Lyon, France) Arouna Kone (Sevilla, Spain) Bakary Kone (Nice, France) Gervais Yao Kouassi (Le Mans, France) Boubacar Sanogo (Werder Bremen, Germany)

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Guinea - Souleyman Youla: The Lille striker is a potential threat to the defence of the Ivorians, and if the Guineans are to create an upset in today’s encounter, he should be the one getting the decisive goal(s).

Ivory Coast - Yaya Toure: The Barcelona midfielder has been the architect of the Ivorian game pattern so far in this tournament. His ability to drag opponents away and create spaces for his teammates, as well as his ability to hold on to the ball, has been the determining factor of the Ivorian game so far. He will be instrumental to his team’s success today.

PREDICTION

This game should go in favor of the Ivorians; all the odds are stacked in favor of the Elephants. I do not really see the Guineans creating an upset in this encounter. Nonetheless, the Elephants can't rest on their laurels.

Ivory Coast 2-0 Guinea

Can 2008 Update : Ghana vs. Nigeria

Only one of Ghana and Nigeria can progress to the semi-finals of this year's African Nations Cup.

Almost a year to the day, on a freezing night in the harrowing surroundings of Griffin Park, Brentford, you would have been forgiven for thinking you were in West Africa. At least that was the impression I got from the perplexed West London locals.


The occasion: An international friendly between Ghana and Nigeria.


The streets were coloured, the atmosphere was electric and to my personal delight Ghana triumphed 4-1 against the Super Eagles. In the game, every Ghanaian goal was greeted with a pitch invasion, and after the game Nigerian’s in and outside of the stadium were being abused in a good-natured way.


This Sunday, the occasion between these two rivals will dwarf the earlier friendly meeting, and fans are having sleepless nights just thinking about the consequences of defeat. This is without doubt the biggest rivalry in Africa, after the Ghanaians showed the Nigerians just how to play football.


The rivalry is not limited just to football, but to culture; economy; and social standing. It is a wonderful rivalry, with no elements of violence, but just a healthy distain and begrudging respect for each other. As a London-born Ghanaian I have been on the receiving end of abuse from my Nigerian compatriots and I have given it back.


A typical example of a day in the life of a Ghanaian - Nigerian fans rivalry would be a Ghanaian accusing Nigerians of coming to their country, stealing all the food, bringing their squad a fraudulent (admittedly world class) con-artist to rob people, while in their own country you will get shot for just minding your business! Nigerians will respond by saying Ghana is nothing without them, that they have no jobs in their own country so they come to Nigeria to live in a real thriving economy.


This massive game is just what this competition needs. I have watched from London with embarrassment and anger after each humiliation the competition has thrown. From the grass being the length of an abandoned public park; journalists being robbed and attacked; the abysmal floodlight failure; to the failure to reduce ticket prices for people who at the worst of times cannot afford to buy food!


It is amazing to think after four-plus years of planning; these incompetent dunderheads at CAF were unable to do things a six-year-old would have implemented!


Neither side has been convincing in the lead up to this game, but Ghana as winners of Group A are the favourites to end a 16-year wait for a competitive win against the Super Eagles (Man, I regret writing that!). Nigeria on the other hand has limped through to the quarter final, playing some of the worst football in the competition.


Berti Vogts and Claude Le Roy are fully aware that their jobs are on the line with a defeat, and the players’ houses and cars will also be under threat with a defeat.


On Sunday, Accra will be buzzing, just as London will be. At 5pm feeling a little bloated from the Joloff rice I will stuff in my face from 2pm, I will be jumping up and down like every Ghanaian. The consequences of defeat are unthinkable and with defeat, I will be in self imposed solitary confinement for around a month.

Overall, the two teams have met 59 times. Ghana lead with 24 wins to Nigeria’s 16, with the other 19 matches ending in draws.

Review written by A Ghanian's friend and I hope he eats his words

GHANA 2008 UPDATE

Set aside the 'potato field', as Claude Le Roy so eloquently described the playing surface at Accra's national stadium, as well as the accreditation nightmare suffered by many journalists and, four breathless days into the tournament, the African Cup of Nations is living up to the hype.

Off the field, from colourful fans through eccentric goalkeeping to inspired celebrations, much of what was expected has been delivered. Between the white lines, however, many of the pre-tournament storylines have, thus far, failed to play out as forecast. The only thing predictable, it seems, is this tournament's unpredictability.

In the opening game, Ghana were indebted to an early contender for goal of the tournament for their Group A win over Guinea. Despite their absence of top-line strikers, Sulley Muntari's heroics in the long grass on Sunday mean the Black Stars favourites' tag remains.

However, Ghana's was a workmanlike win, unimpressive when compared to emphatic victories by two nations from the north of the African continent. Geography, history suggests, is often a key factor in deciding who takes home the trophy at this bi-annual event. Ghana are seeking to become the third straight home team to prevail but early evidence suggests that Morocco and Egypt are intent on bucking that trend.

Egypt came into the tournament as defending champions and yet little was expected of Hassan Shehata's side. How, though, the Pharaohs announced themselves in Group C, playing with a chip on their shoulder to demolish Cameroon, whose pre-tournament favorites tag has been replaced by one that says 'must do better'. Fortunately for them, in a group that also features Sudan and Zambia, the Indomitable Lions have chances to re-establish themselves.

For Egypt, Mohammed Zidan announced himself as an early candidate for the tournament's top scorer crown with two altogether different, yet equally impressive, goals. However, the Hamburg striker's brace was outshone by the exploits of Morocco's Soufiane Alloudi, who found the net three times in the first 28 minutes of the Lions of the Atlas' 5-1 Group C mauling of Namibia, who looked every bit like a nation playing at this level for just the second time.

Before it began, the most mouth-watering tie of the opening matches was undoubtedly Ivory Coast versus Nigeria. However, as is so often the case, the game failed to live up to its star billing. In fairness to both teams, stifling 35°C heat made a lively tempo difficult to maintain but, overall, this was a match that neither side would have chosen to kick off their campaign.

A moment of magic, hardly in-keeping with the rest of this uninspiring game, saw Ivory Coast take the honours. Salomon Kalou's own nomination for the tournament's best goal secured the points and the Elephants look set to control Group B.

Nigeria, by contrast, are a team with issues. Under a coach, Berti Vogts, who spoke out prior to the tournament about his exasperation with the way Nigerian football is run, this was a disjointed display that will do much to encourage Mali's belief that their qualification from Group B is possible.

Nigeria's forward line, boasting Kanu, Yakubu, Obafemi Martins and John Utaka, was starved of consistent service, as a lack of cohesion permeated through a Super Eagles' side devoid of the attacking flair with which it has traditionally been associated. Furthermore, critical comments about his teammates following the game from John Obi Mikel will have done little to boost morale.

In Group D, Senegal, one of the darlings of African football in the early part of this decade, looked set to announce themselves to the rest of the tournament with a win, only for another northern upstart, Tunisia, to peg them back.

Two years ago, Senegal scraped into the quarterfinals despite losing two of their three group games and their failure to dispose of their first opponent in Ghana suggests that, once again, the Lions of Teranga may fall just short of what it takes to go all the way. However, perhaps it is too early to make such statements, especially as Group D is wide open following South Africa's draw with Angola.

Thus, with each team having played one game, what is certain is that this is a tournament, which could be won by a number of its participants. But the knockout stages are the time to evaluate who will be celebrating in Accra on 10 February. For now, for the unfancied teams especially, enjoyment and entertainment appear to be the key motivation.

In the opening eight games of the tournament, 23 goals were scored. In the 2006 World Cup, the same number of games featured 18 goals, one more strike than was yielded in the opening eight ties of Euro 2004.

Certainly, some questionable goalkeeping and playing surfaces, not to mention a ball that does some funny things when airborne are a number of factors, which can be pointed to for this offensive output.

However, perhaps the most pleasing reason for the attacking play stems from the collective desires of many teams to attack, which is often fueled by individuals keen to impress the many watching scouts in the hope of securing a big-money transfer. Even more impressive is that it is some of the underdogs that are barking loudest at their opponent's goal.

Who would have predicted that, four days into the 26th Cup of Nations, Morocco would have scored more goals than Ivory Coast, Ghana and Nigeria combined? Or that Hosni Abd Rabo would have two goals while messrs Drogba, Yakubu and Diouf have none? Or, and this is almost as pleasing as the attacking play, not a single red card has been shown?

The referees have let the players play and all who have observed - journalists apart, perhaps - have reaped the viewing benefits. Long may it continue.

GHANA 2008 PREVIEW : Tunisia VS Angola

The Carthage Eagles will have their hands full in this encounter against a team that had until fairly recently been regarded as “minnows” in the continent’s football scene.

However, the omens are good. The Tunisians showed predatory abilities to pounce on some very slack defending by the South Africans in their last group game, with Yassine Chikhaoui the chief tormentor for the eventual victors.

In truth, the Bafana Bafana players did not show enough determination on the day, and during the only period that they made attempts on the Tunisian goal, the inexperienced strike-force squandered the chances.

That masked the fact that the Tunisian defence is a nervous one, with their penchant for committing unnecessary errors posing a serious threat to their campaign. This lapse could become very important when they face the strong strike force of the Angolans in today’s encounter.

Coach Roger Lemerre has disciplinary concerns, with strikers Francileudo Dos Santos, Kamel Zaiem, defender Ben Fraj and midfielder Mejdi Traoui all one booking away from missing out on a possible quarter-final encounter against powerhouses Cameroon or Egypt.

However, he has pacy and skillful striker Amine Chermiti back for this one, after he served his two-match ban for a red card he received in the team’s last qualifying game.

The striker will have to watch his temperament though, as the referee who was responsible for issuing his red card, Coffi Codja, will officiate today's game.

The Tunisians will come into this encounter knowing that a draw will be good enough for them to progress through to the quarter final stage but can they get it? Or will they go the way of Mali? We'll find out today.

Angolan Hope

With three goals in only two games for his country at the tournament so far, Manucho is looking every inch a legend in the making.

The Palancas Negras came into this tournament as veritable dark horses, and have become a dreaded force after two fantastic displays against South Africa and group favorites Senegal.

There is no guessing how far this team will go in the championship, and with their determined and exquisite brand of football, the Angolans have proven themselves to be a team worthy of respect.

Coach Oliviera Goncalves’s decision to leave out star midfielder Figueiredo in favour of Andre in the game against Senegal seemed to have paid great dividends as the team appeared to be highly inspired, bossing the midfield with ease.

The team will go into this game also knowing a draw should get them through, but the pressure is more on Tunisia's shoulders, as they are still favourites.

There are club rivalries at play in this one, with Al Ahli’s Flavio and Gilberto set to face some members of the Etoile du Sahel squad that denied them the CAF champion’s league last year.

The Tunisians have history on their side however with regards to confrontation between the two sides in the past. The sides have met on four occasions previously, with the Tunisians winning three times and the other game ending in a draw.

TEAM NEWS

TUNISIA

With the availability of Amine Chermiti, it would seem Roger Lemerre would want to keep Dos Santos on the bench for this game, considering the Brazilian-born forward's booking. But how Chermiti bonds with the team is another worry for the French coach.

Majdi Traoui ,who is also on a yellow card, will surely be replaced by the strong Chaker Zouaghi in the middle of the pack. Also, Jaohar Mnari, who suffered a slight knock in the game against South Africa should return to the left side of midfield.

In goal we should expect to see Hamdi Kasraoui, who has so far conceded three goals in the tournament.

The defence is set to see Radhouane Felhi replacing Ben Fraj ,since he is also on a yellow card. He should pair up with skipper Radhi Jaidi. Swiss-based Yassine Mikari and Karim Hagui should complete the defence line-up.

The midfield should be headed by Medhi Nafti, along with Chaker Zouaghi and Jawhar M’Nari.

Mohammed Amine Chermiti should return to the attack, joining Issam Jemaa in the starting line up. The impressive Yassine Chakaoui should come on later in the encounter.

Roger Lemerre is set to send out a 4-4-2 formation for this one.

Squad

Hamdi Kasraoui (Espérance Tunisia), Adel Nefzi (Clubafricain, Tunisia), Aymen Mathlouthi (Etoile du Sahel, Tunisia), Wissem Abdi (Zamalek, Egypt), Sabeur Ben Frej (Etoile du Sahel, Tunisia), Karim Hagui (Bayer Leverkusen, Germany), Yassine Mikari (Grasshopper, Switzerland), Seif Ghezal (Etoile du Sahel, Tunisia) Mehdi Meriah (Etoile du Sahel, Tunisia), Radhouane Felhi (Etoile du Sahel, Tunisia), Radhi Jaidi (Birmingham City, England), Wissem Bekri (Espérance, Tunisia), Chaouki Ben Saada (FC Bastia, France), Jawhar M'Nari (FC Nuremberg, Germany), Mehdi Nafti (Birmingham City, England), Kamel Zaiem (Espérance, Tunisis), Chaker Zouaghi (Locomotive Moscow, Russia), Majdi Traoui (Etoile du Sahel, Tunisia), Yassine Chikhaoui (FC Zurich), Silva Dos Santos (FC Toulouse, France), Issam Jemaa (FC Caen, France), Mohamed Amine Chermiti (Etoile du Sahel, Tunisia), Mehdi Ben Dhifallah (Etoile du Sahel, Tunisia)

ANGOLA

Coach Oliviera Goncalves would be impressed with the performance of his side in the comeback victory over Senegal, and we should expect him to send out almost the same squad. The probable exclusions could be Flavio and talented midfielder Andre, based on the yellow cards they picked up in the Senegal clash.

In between the goal posts we should expect to see Joao Lama, who has done well so far for the Angolans.

The defence is likely to be marshaled by Rui Marques and Kali, with Marco Airosa and Yamba Asha providing support from the flanks.

In the midfield we should expect the return of team skipper Figueiredo, who would be joined by Ze Kalanga, Mendonca and Gilberto.

The attack line is set to have star forward Manucho, probably alongside Mateus of Boavista.

Squad

Lama (Petro Atletico), Mario (InterClube), Nuno (AS Aviacao), Marco Airosa (Fatima), Delgado (Metz), Jamba (AS Aviacao), Kali (FC Sion), Loco (Primeiro Agosto), Machado (Anadia), Rui Marques (Leeds United), Yamba Asha (Petro Atletico), Andre (Kuwait SC), Dede, Edson (both Pacos Ferreira), Figueiredo (Osters), Gilberto (Al Ahly), Maurito (Kuwait SC), Mendonca (Estrela Amadora), Ze Kalanga (Boavista), Flavio (Al Ahly), Love (Primeiro Agosto), Manucho (Petro Atletico), Mateus (Boavista)

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Tunisia - Chermiti Amine: The 20-year-old has been raring to go at this tournament, but has been restricted by his suspension. He has the pace and a skill to trouble any defence, and was largely responsible for Etoile du Sahel’s success at last year’s African Champions League.

Angola - Manucho: Who can doubt the prolific nature of this Manchester United-bound youngster? He has shown some great composure in front of goal so far, and with the possible exclusion of Flavio from the squad, he will be the player Angolans would be looking up to for the goals.

PREDICTION

This game is sure going to be a cracker, against all odds: With both sides knowing a draw would just be sufficient to take them through; expectations would be that they would both take it easy with each other. But I don’t expect that to happen in this game today. Pride, and first place, are at stake.

The battle for the midfield will be intense, and the winner of that battle should deservedly win the war. I would give this encounter to the Angolans: they have grown with each game, and there teamplay seems to have developed rapidly as well. They have a very good understanding of each other, and that is an essential attribute for success.

Tunisia 1 - 2 Angola

Moyes Calls For Prem African Shutdown

Everton gaffer David Moyes has called for a Premier League shut-down during future African Cup of Nations tournaments...

In an ideal world, the bigwigs would have the African showpiece moved to the European off-season. These calls were rebuffed, though, by the Confederation of African Football, who are unwilling to make this compromise.

David Moyes is without Joseph Yobo, Ayegbeni Yakubu and Stephen Pienaar during this crucial period of matches. With the Toffees pushing for a European place this term, Moyes is of the opinion that the Premier League should accommodate the Cup of Nations instead.

"You cannot win. But maybe now we have to consider if we close the Premier League season down during the African Nations Cup," Moyes told AFP.

"That would be the correct respect for Africa and the players in it.

"If we want to bring players in from that part of the world we should be rightly allowed to do so, which we are, but it is not a fair playing field if you cannot field your best team."

Indeed, the fixture problems aren’t limited to Europe and Africa. Everton midfielder Tim Cahill may soon be on Australia duty, with FIFA clearly struggling to correlate the world football calendar.

"I think it's ridiculous that someone has to fly halfway around the world in between two league matches at this stage of the season," said Moyes.

"But Tim has to make the decision on whether he goes to play for Australia or not. He has got a hamstring injury just now so we will have to see if that hinders him in any way."

Super Eagles Become Super Vultures

Nigeria relinquished the Cup of Nation against Mali in a crucial tie on Thursday by failing to win when it mattered the most.

The Super Eagles were once famed for killing teams off themselves. Now, after that capitulation to Mali, the birds can only fly to the next round if the Ivory Coast do them a favour in the final set of group matches. The eagles, then, need someone else to do their killing: they are now vultures.


It was indeed the worst performance of Nigeria since the introduction of this cup. Nigeria missed key Kanu through injury, but also lacked preparation and were unable to match Malian's skill, mental strength and desire. For Mali, salvaging the pointwas a matter of personal and national pride which the Super Eagles couldn't match.

Nigeria is a powerhouse in African football and the national side is ranked number one in the African continent. But after the performance, the status has diminished and rightly so the “Super Eagles” turned to ordinary vultures. In order to win this the match, they needed fire-power, and star studded players had to perform. The defence wasn't up to much either, but these were the two main areas of failure. Nigerian strikers failed to find the net in the second consecutive game, and Yakubu didn’t look like the Yakubu we see in Premier League every week.

In the last fifteen minutes, they showed their desperation to break the deadlock. For this, everyone moved forward and tried their best to beat the ticking clock. But desperation and panic is not the way game is played. Tournament football needs clear cut plans and strategies are made in order to cope with situations like this. When such designs exist, they produces fruitful results. For Nigeria, there were no team work and nobody was ready to take the lead, and no plan was forthcoming.


The heat was another factor in the poor scoreline, and in some ways an avoidable one. Nigerian, they were trained mostly in Nigeria and Spain which, will not cold countries, lacked the exact tournament conditions of Ghana. In addition, they played their preparatory games with European countries instead playing with their continental fellows.

As if to show the lack of ideas in the Nigerian camp, Jon Mikel Obi expressed his nervousness when he was interviewed after the match. When asked about Nigeria’s chances, his first reaction was, “I don’t know”. When asked about Kanu’s absence, again it was, “I don’t know”.

I personally like the way Mali came into this match. They made every effort to snatch the point, and this they did. Mali were more dangerous and difficult than Nigeria - even though in some areas their squad is weaker. They hit the targets well and were pushing very hard from start to finish.


Nigeria, on the other hand, scarcely earned the tag “Super Eagles”. Once upon a time they were called that, because in many ways they resembled one, hunting in destructive packs. But after this defeat, Nigeria must adapt to a diet of dead animals as would vultures. Their fate lies in the hands of Ivory Coast, in that they need the Ivorians to kill Mali's chances. Having to rely on results elsewhere is hardly becoming of an eagle.


Nigeria have one of the best strike forces in Africa and they have lot of talent but when it comes to backroom coaching, yet the squad does not work as it should. It’s not about players, it’s not about coaches, it’s about football administration and Nigerian have to put their administration in order. That will see an effect that works its way down from management to players, and finally result in some teamplay.


With World Cup 2010 not too far away, Nigeria is a force to whom the continent will look for success. But with this sort of performance, expectations will be lowered significantly.


The future of Nigerian football seems to be very bleak. I take pity on Nigerian supporters.

Agogo lifts Ghana past gritty Namibia

Ghana need only a draw against Morocco on Monday to guarantee their quarter-final berth at the African Nations Cup after Nottingham Forest striker Junior Agogo earned the hosts a 1-0 win over Namibia on Thursday.

Namibia's second straight loss means they will be heading off to the airport irrespective of what happens in their final Group A tie against Guinea with valuable lessons learned ahead of their bid to qualify for the 2010 World Cup.

This was the second game of the day in Accra, the first producing something of an upset when Guinea, reduced to 10 men for much of the second half, beat Morocco 3-2.

These two results left Ghana heading Group A on six points, with Morocco and Guinea both on three with all to play for come Monday.

"We may not have played fantastically well but we've still got six points from our first two games," said Ghana coach Claude Le Roy.

"That leaves us needing only a draw to top the group.

"I knew Namibia wouldn't lose 5-1 against us like they did in their first match. They were well organised, compact in defence.

"Now we've got Morocco, we only need a draw but we'll play to win. We'll be ready for them on Monday at five o'clock."

Chelsea midifelder Michael Essien, the man of the match, added: "I think this game was much better than the first one. People were expecting us to come up with more goals, but the most important thing is the six points."

Guinea coach Arie Schans said he was proud of his players.

"This was a big difference to our first game when the players' appeared nervous.

"This time we showed we could play good football. Now our next goal with a bit of luck will be to pick up three points against Guinea."

West Ham right back John Pantsil, who was flown to Nigeria on Wednesday for a scan after suffering concussion against Guinea, was a surprise starter allowing Claude Le Roy to name the same line up for the second consecutive match.

Namibia made three changes, with Dutchman Schans switching goalkeepers after Monday's 5-1 drubbing, Abisai Shiningayamwe making way for Athiel Mbaha.

Ghana, marshalled by Essien in midfield, made clear their intent from the whistle, taking up permanent residence in the Brave Warriors' territory yet the underdogs kept them at bay for the first 30 minutes.

Given that they were 4-0 down by the break against Morocco, the goalless scoreline up to the 40th minute spoke volumes for Namibia's newfound resilience, their coach's comment that they'd played like "schoolkids" against the Moroccans had obviously hurt.

The Group A underdogs were fortunate to be let off though when Udinese striker Asamoah Gyan hit the ball over Mbaha's bar from six yards out.

And just as the solace of half time beckoned Ghana got what seemed was their inevitable reward for all their hard work when Agogo slotted home rather clumsily from near point blank range after Quincy Owusu Abeyie's cross from the right four minutes from the interval.

Shortly after the resumption Portsmouth midfielder Sulley Muntari, responsible for the match winner over Guinea, had the Ohene Djan Stadium roaring when he unleashed one of his trademark long shots at Attiel, the ball on this occasion sailing over the crossbar.

Ghana goalkeeper Richard Kingston then picked up a booking for a too hastily taken free kick meaning he'll miss the all important game on Monday, leaving his brother, Hearts midfielder Laryea, to uphold family honour against Morocco.

On the hour mark Le Roy took off Laryea Kingston, replacing him with Marseille starlet, Andre Ayew.

The second half mirrored the preceding one, with Ghana harrying the Namibian defence which again performed manfully to deny the forecast deluge of goals from Muntari and co.

Namibia weren't without their chances, their talismanic Hamburg midfielder Collin Benjamin just shooting wide of the far post in the 75th minute but Ghana weren't about to let this one get away.

Ghana 2008 Update : Angola 1 - 1 South Africa

South Africa's Late Screamer Denies Angola The Win

Angola 1 - 1 South Africa

Elrio Van Heerden's late strike denied Angola a win that seemed sealed by Manucho's classy diving header in the first half...

After a dull opening period, a late surge from South Africa saw them restore parity against an Angolan side that may feel slightly hard done by in terms of the result.

Unlike most matches in the tournament, there was relatively little for the fans to shout about early in the first half.

The opening stages played out in cagey fashion, with 14 minutes elapsing before the first real chance. Even then, Pienaar's cross into the Angolan box was cleared away for a corner, despite its clear danger.

Two minutes later, Flavio raced onto a through ball at the other end, with goalkeeper Josephs and left-back Mhlongo colliding in an attempt to stop him. The striker was penalised for his part in the incident, and Josephs was left with a head wound for his troubles.

Still, he was able to save Flavio's next attempt ten minutes later, although Manucho's on the half hour mark proved too much for him.

Flavio cut inside past Masilela before chipping the ball across goalmouth, where new Manchester United man Manucho was waiting to fire home a diving header.

Zuma then had a great chance to replicate the feat at the other end, but hit wide, while Flavio then came forward on the break, only to find his shot deflected. Was it handball? The referee thought not as half time came.

In truth, other than Manucho's goal, relatively few of the incidents had been edge-of-seat stuff. That changed in the second period, which was very slightly more exciting.

South Africa were keen to impress, having taken off Moriri and Tsahabalala for Fanteni and Lerato, but found themselves frustrated by overhit through balls and the offside trap.

Once again, though, it took fifteen minutes for a real chance to break out. Not long after Lama had to race off his line to punch clear a Pineaar cross, Modise then played in a corner for Mhlongo, only for the defender to head wide.

The brilliant Flavio then was almost both provider and scorer, linking up well with Ze Kalanga for the latter to shoot just wide, before bringing out the best in Josephs after a close-range effort.

South Africa were beginning to tire, but actually had thee great chances as the game drew to a close. They must have thought that, between Mokoena's shot perhaps just sneaking over and Lama pulling off wonder-stops from Moon and Fanteni, that it was all over for them.

Not so, for Elrio Van Heerden added yet another goal worthy of highlight reels for years to come in a tournament that's already seen plenty.

The Club Brugge man, on as a substitute, strode forward on the right before left-footing it right into the top corner from just under 30 yards.

Flavio almost had the last word in stoppage time with an effort that just looped over, while Lama once again was brought into action by Fanteni, and a game that once threatened to be dull had ended in some style.

However, a draw will do neither side much good...

Tunisia And Senegal Battle To Entertaining Stalemate Tunisia 2 - 2 Senegal

Tunisia and Senegal each enjoyed bright spells in the tournament's first draw. This was a match that, while not quite as flowing or eventful as some of the others, showed that neither of these two sides is destined to be among the tournament whipping boys, and perhaps that more is to come from each of them.

Senegal started brightly, with Mamadou Niang roving confidently up front, but in fact it was the Tunisian side that was to draw first blood.

It took them just nine minutes to do so, Issam Jemaa swapping passes with Bekri before striding to the edge of the box and side-footing past Sylva.

That stunned the Senegalese, who thus surrendered the initiative to the Carthage Eagles.

Dos Santos came clsoe to receiving the ball in a dangerous area not long afterwards, but for the most part, their dominance was in the midfield, restricting Senegal mainly to long-range efforts.

Diouf and Niang tried to hit on the break, with the latter going close from the edge of the area, but in truth Tunisia were in control until five minutes before the interval.

Then, Diouf was inches away from getting on the end of a fine cross, and Tunisia began to sit back.

In doing so, Senegal were given the run of the midfield, and this gave them the equaliser right on the stroke of half time.

Jaidi was unable to get between a long ball forward and Bayal Sall, with the left-winger gratefully connecting to fire home with style. The Saint-Etienne youngster was delighted, and his side were back in the game.

Just after the restart, the Teranga Lions almost managed the lead. Kamara was put trough on goal by Diouf as the Tunisian defence dithered, but the forward could only steer his shot wide.

At the other end, Dos Santos picked up a booking for diving in the box, and then Senegal were on the rampage once more, Kasraoui having to be at his agile best to deal with Diouf.

The Senegalese were beginning to dominate, and really should have taken the lead on the hour mark, only for Mamadou Niang to somehow fire wide from six yards with the goal at his mercy.

His blushes were spared seven minutes later when Fulham's Diomansy Kamara was able to convert into an open goal after Faye's blocked shot landed at his feet: 1-2.

Henri Camara then came close to matching his namesake's feat, only for Bekri to intervene at the last minute.

That second goal, though, largely saw Senegal begin to relax, allowing Tunisia to stride forward in search of taking something from this game. Zaiem showed his substitute's energy to go close with twenty minutes to go, but it took another CAN wonder-strike to restore parity.

It came from the boot of Etoile du Sahel's Medji Traoui, who had a few seconds to tee up a long-range effort. This he did, and Sylva was left helpless as the ball hit the back of the net.

Senegal tried to hit back, but their goalward efforts were beginning to lack conviction. What's more, there were nerves and tempers flaring, particularly as Kamara picked up a booking for a late challenge. Heading into the final minutes, then, Tunisia had the chance to strike.

Jaidi almsot managed to reach a deep free-kick to surely poke home, and Sylva was foxed by Traoui's cross-cum-shot, but there were to be no more goals, and 2-2 it ended.

South Africa and Angola square off later in the next Group D match.

Africa Cup of Nations : Cameroon 2 Vs Egypt 4

Two goals each from Mohamed Zidan and Hosni Abd Rabou gave Egypt a fine start in their defence of the Nations Cup.

Cameroon were outplayed in the first half, Abd Rabou scoring from the spot and Zidan netting two superb goals.

His first came from a speedy breakaway, then he chested down and shot from outside the penalty box for his second.

Samuel Eto'o scored after the break, but Abd Rabou's long shot on 82 minutes ended hopes of a comeback, though Eto'o scored again from the spot.

Despite their status as holders, Egypt's qualifying campaign had been uninspiring, and Cameroon were expected to have the upper hand over the Pharaohs.

But Egypt began with spark and confidence, pressurising the Cameroon defence from the start of the game.

Mohamed Shawky tested Indomitable Lions' goalkeeper Carlos Kameni with a long-range shot in the third minute.

The opening goal came after 14 minutes when Andre Bikey handled in the box and Abd Rabou converted the penalty.

Zidan made it 2-0 three minutes later, breaking from inside his own half, exchanging passes with Emad Moteab and racing through the Cameroon defence before slotting home.

Four-time champions Cameroon were shocked, and there was more to come.

In first-half stoppage time, Zidan struck again, chesting the ball down outside the box and striking home powerfully.

But Eto'o gave a team talk before his side came back after the break, and Cameroon were a transformed side.

They began playing with purpose and pulled one back on 51 minutes as Eto'o headed in a Geremi cross.

He nearly added another 12 minutes later, shooting just wide.

What had been an exciting contest then slowed down, as Egypt began to dampen Cameroon's momentum.

Abd Rabou's magnificent 25-yard shot sealed the victory with eight minutes remaining.

Cameroon did score again though, with an Eto'o penalty in stoppage time.

Nigeria Struggle To Justify Number One Tag

Nigeria Struggle To Justify Number One Tag

Walter Townsend asks if Nigeria are truly worthy of being FIFA's top ranked team in Africa after the defeat to the Ivory Coast on Monday...

Yesterday's disappointing defeat to the Ivory Coast in Nigeria's opening game in Group B underlined several of Nigeria's deficiencies, most notably their inability to supply any worthwhile service to their frontline. What's more, defeat now leaves them requiring a win against Mali if they are to retain hopes of keeping qualification in their own hands.

Nigeria came into the tournament as one of the favourites for the title. The 23 man squad that German coach Berti Vogts announced certainly indicated that Nigeria were planning to go for the win, with 8 strikers named in the selection.

With bold pre-tournament claims of turning Nigeria into the "Germany of Africa", Vogts has indeed kept to his word. Unfortunately from Nigeria's perspective, though, Vogts appears to have modelled the side on the German side of 1998. That year, under his management, they crashed out in the quarter finals of the World Cup, having been thrashed by Croatia - it was widely considered to be one of the worst German national sides ever.

The performance against the Ivory Coast was slammed in local media, with the Times of Nigeria describing the defeat as "humiliating" and the team as "listless". But Vogts, the former Scotland manager, preferred to concentrate on lavishing praise on their opponents claiming that his men "have lost against the best team in Africa".

The main area of weakness highlighted in that defeat was the service to the strikers. Whilst the match between Africa's highest ranked side in the FIFA rankings and arguably the strongest team in the competition, was always going to be a tense affair with little to choose between the two teams, the initiative was always with the Ivory Coast.

With 4 strikers on the pitch from the outset Nigeria were armed to the teeth with forwards; Yakubu and Martins started up front whilst Kanu and Utaka started from behind the front-line. The underlying principle behind the formation was to use Kanu as a withdrawn forward playing between midfield and attack, using him as a focal point, exploiting his ability on the ball plus intelligence to pick his moments to get ahead of his strikers.

Unfortunately from the Super Eagle's point of view, it didn't work out that way as Kanu was marked out of the game by Didier Zokora for the Ivory Coast, and both Martins and Yakubu struggled to make any sort of impact on the game. With 4 strikers on the pitch to begin with, a large gap quickly developed between the defence and attack as both sides sat back in the early stages, understandably keen not to let the first goal in.

Enforced changes in the second half had little effect as Kanu limped off after an hour and was replaced by FC Zurich based midfielder Okonkwo. The three remaining strikers being used in a more orthodox 4-3-3 formation helped little as the Ivorians retained their dominance in midfield.

Furthermore the switch to 4-3-3 meant that Martins was obliged to move wider to accommodate the arrival of Utaka in the frontline, a position he doesn't relish either in the colours of Nigeria or Newcastle. Other personnel changes in the second half saw Lokomotiv Moscow striker Odemwinge come on for Utaka and Lazio forward Steve Makinwa come on for Martins. But even the new arrivals couldn't affect the flow of the game as no service was forthcoming.

The 23 man squad Nigeria doesn't possess any player who can assume the role of Jay-Jay Okacha, the former Bolton Wanderers and PSG midfielder who has since retired from international football. Later in the match Chelsea midfielder Jon Obi Mikel was asked to push further forward and try and play a few passes through in homage to Jay-Jay, but this isn't Mikel's natural game. He is a midfielder who brings hard-work and tackling to the midfield, not clever passing.

Of the 8 forwards called into the team, only Kanu and Odemwinge have any experience of playing in a withdrawn role. How Nigeria must have envied the Ivory Coast after they made changes at half-time to give them a better shape. With Lyon's record signing Kader Keita coming on down the right side to introduce some extra width, and Bakary Kone, the Nice midfielder, slotting into the whole, the Ivory Coast are much better equipped to change tactics.

With so many good strikers available Nigeria still have plenty of fire power within the team, but finding a player capable of providing the service must be high on the list of priorities. Using Odemwingwe as a winger may be a possibility; he has played as a left winger in the past for Lille prior to his move to Russia, although that would still leave an imbalance on the right. Another option would be to switch to 5-3-2 with Taiwo - who looked good on the run - and Apam given more licence to get forward from wing-back positions.

Whatever formation Vogts decides to play with, raising the morale of the team will be critical to Nigeria's further progress. The Super Eagles looked devoid of ideas in the second half against the Ivory Coast as self-belief visibly drained away.

A victory against Mali will keep qualification in Nigeria's own hands whilst a draw would leave Nigeria needing the Ivory Coast to beat Mali in the final game of the group and Nigeria needing to beat Benin by more than 1 goal.

With Vogts being told that only ultimate victory in this edition of the tournament will keep him in the hotseat, unless a rapid solution to Nigeria’s service problems is found the German may be back on the job market sooner than he wishes.

CAN 2008 Preview: Cameroon - Egypt

CAN 2008 Preview: Cameroon - Egypt

What: African Cup of Nations, Group C
Who: Cameroon vs. Egypt
When: Tuesday, 22 January 2008, 17:00 GMT
Where: Baba Yara Sports Stadium, Kumasi

At exactly 17:00 GMT, all soccer enthusiasts’ eyes will be directed to the Baba Yara Stadium ground in Kumasi to witness a clash of two major African powerhouses battling it out. It's a match between the mighty Pharaohs (Egypt) and the Indomitable Lions (Cameroon), kicking off Group C.

With the memories of the World Cup 2006 qualifiers defeat from Egypt, which cost Cameroon a place in the finals, still fresh in the minds of the Lions, they’ll be looking forward to this encounter to try and take back a piece of their pride.

They'll also look to kick off the group stages in the tournament with a win to send a message to all teams that Cameroon are on their way for a record matching fifth title, with only Egypt having won that many times so far.

Egypt, title holders and record breaking five times CAN champions, still lingering with memories of winning their beloved trophy on home soil last time around, will be looking forward to this game to prove any doubters wrong.

Home advantage counts for a lot in tournaments like these, but the Pharoahs will want to send out a message tto the effect that it's not just because they played on home turf that they won the cup last time, but because they’re that good.

History aside, Tuesday’s clash between the two giants should produce some football of the highest quality as both teams will try to kick off their campaign with a win, which according to common statistics and mere logic, should grant the winners here a place in the next round.

Egypt prepared for the tournament by playing three friendlies against Namibia, Mali, and Angola, beating Namibia and Mali and drawing against Angola, though history shows that its not how you play in friendlies, its how you cope with the pressures of the big games. The vibe coming from the Egyptian camp is all full of hope and edginess even though Egyptian stars Mido and Hossam Ghaly are missing from the squad; quite unlike the vibe coming from Egyptian fans, who in turn fear the worst in spite of Egypt having very talented players.

Hassan Shehata, Egypt’s Manager, usually adopts a 4-4-2 formation which transpires into a 4-3-3 according to the match progression, but it is very likely that he’ll use a 3-5-2 in Tuesday’s game to try to add depth in the midfield to overcome Cameroon’s powerful midfield surges, thus preventing balls to their main threat, Eto’o.

Egypt’s talents include the likes of Al Ahly’s Mohamed Abu Treika, one of Africa’s most famous and best players, veteran Anderlecht Belgian Silver Boot winner Ahmed Hassan, Hamburg’s Mohamed Zidan, Emad Met’eb - who scored a hatrick in the Angola friendly - and debatably Africa’s best goal keeper Essam El Hadary, among many others, who in turn will be looking to help Egypt lift their sixth African Cup in their history.

Otto Pfister, the Cameroon coach, will be pulling up his sleeves using the massive knowledge of Egyptian culture and playing styles, having managed Al Zamalek in Egypt for a couple of years, to try and write of the champions.

Usually adopting a 4-4-2 formation, and with a massive crop of talented players with the likes of Reading’s Andre Bikey, Arsenal’s young gun Alex Song, Lille’s Jean Makoun, and veteran Geremi all available to bolster and strengthen that midfield, Pfister will be hoping that Cameroon and Barcelona superstar Samuel Eto’o is sharp enough to bag those goals. If everything goes as planned, will increase Cameroon’s chances of firstly winning the match against Egypt, and secondly stepping up to lift that trophy once more.

It should be a close battle between the midfielders, but as to whether Eto’o’s pace and knack for goals may prove too much for the Egyptian defenses and El Hadary, or Abu Treika could orchestrate Egypt’s dominance, only time will tell.

TEAM NEWS:

EGYPT:

Egypt were given a right scare after main goalkeeper Essam El Hadary twisted his ankle in training yesterday, and he's in doubt for Tuesday’s match.

Another important loss for the Egyptian team is team captain Ahmed Hassan, who’s out for two matches due to gaining two yellow cards.

Emad Met’eb is also in doubt for the game after complaining from neck pain, but is likely to feature in the game.

Amr Zaki who recovered from a minor head concussion suffered in the Mali friendly is also available.

Other than that, all other players are available for selection, with Wael Gomaa and Shadi Mohamed leading the defenses, and Shawky dominating the midfield.

Mido and Hossam Ghaly are both out of the African Nations squad, so they’re not available.

Squad From:

Essam al-Hadary (Al-Ahly), Mohamed Monsef (Zamalek)Mahmoud Fathallah (Zamalek), Tarek al-Sayed (Zamalek), Sayed Moawad, Hani Saied (Ismailia), Shady Mohamed (Al-Ahly), Ahmed Fathi (Al-Ahly), Wael Gomaa (Al-Siliya), Ahmed al-Muhammadi (ENPPI), Omar Gamal (Ismailia), Hosni Abd Rabou (Ismailia), Mohamed Aboutraika (Al-Ahly), Hassan Mostafa (Al-Wehda), Mohamed Shawky (Middlesbrough),Mohamed Fadl (Ismailia), Emad Moteab (Al-Ahly), Amr Zaki (Zamalek), Mohamed Zidan (Hamburg)

CAMEROON:

Pfister should have all his players available for selection, and thus will opt for the strongest possible XI, with Kameni, Eto’o and Makoun all making the starting line up. An attacking formation is expected.

Samuel Eto'o has recently returned to the Barcelona lineup but questions linger over his match sharpness. However, those fears should prove unfounded, as he's had long enough to prepare for the tournament.

Captain Rigobert Song should marshall the back line.

Squad From:

Kameni (Espanyol), Hamidou Souleymanou (Denizlispor, Rigobert Song (Galatasaray), Andre Bikey (Reading), Timothee Atouba (Hamburg), Bill Tchato (Qatar Sport), Benoit Angbwa (Saturn), Gilles Augustin Binya (Benfica), Geremi (Newcastle United), Alexandre Song (Arsenal), Achille Emana (Toulouse), Jean Joel Epalle (Vfl Bochum), Jean Makoun (Lille), Landry Nguemo (Nancy), Modeste Mbami (Olympique Marseille), Paul Tchamba Essola (Arsenal Kiev), Stephane Mbia Etoundi (Stade Rennes), Alain Nkong (Atlente), Samuel Eto'o (Barcelona), Bertin Tomou (Excelsior Mouscron), Mohamadou Idrissou (MSV Duisburg), Joseph Desire Job (Nice)

Players to Watch:

EGYPT:

Amr Zaki- Although Mohamed Abu Treika would be the right off number one threat for the Egyptian team when in the right form, it’s Amr Zaki who’ll be grabbing the headlines in this tournament after a major overhaul in his abilities over the past two years and is likely to be Egypt’s top scorer.

CAMEROON:

Samuel Eto’o- When you’ve got a player of Eto’o’s caliber, you just can’t ignore him, and rightly so. One of the best goal scorers ever to grace the continent, Eto’o dazzled football fanatics both in club and country for the past 4 years, and is likely to do so here, given that he remains free of injury.

PREDICTION:

Prepare yourself for one massive game. Two major forces in African football history battling out for first place in Group C, I’m expecting some flying tackles, real end to end stuff in this game with the winner being the team who’ll grab that lone chance in front of goal. A real close battle, but I’m predicting Cameroon will edge out Egypt in the nearest of margins.

Final Score: Egypt 1 – 2 Cameroon

Mohamed Seif

Nigeria 0 - 1 Ivory Coast

The Ivory Coast deserved their win over a Nigeria side that couldn't quite match the lustre of the Elephants...

Salomon Kalou's tremendous solo effort 66 minutes in separated the West African titans in a match that will have repercussions right until the tournament's end.

The Ivorians looked more disciplined and accomplished throughout, and while Nigeria may feel that they should have had a first half penalty, the Elephants' second-half showing was more than enough for the win.

Ghana versus Guinea may have caught the imagination of the hosting support, but this was the fixture that was to really seize the world's attention. Africa's number-one ranked team, the Super Eagles, facing off against tournament favourites Ivory Coast.

The players seemed up for the occasion from the outset, although there was little by way of nationalistic posturing between them. Instead, the European superstars who play with and against each other so regularly exchanged handshakes prior to the match.

Then hostilities began.

Any talk of a cagey opening was soon dismised as John Mikel Obi teed up Nigeria's centre-forward Kanu for a long-range effort, but the Portsmouth man's shot flashed just wide.

Long-range shots were largely the staple of the first half, with mixed results: Taye Taiwo was inches away from opening the scoring 16 minutes in with a thundering 35-yarder that hit the crossbar, while Yaya Toure brought out the best in Ejide with his own distant effort.

That shot twenty minutes in signalled the start of a period of Ivorian dominance in midfield, but Nigeria should through Utaka that they can be dangerous on the break: the powerful forward broke through on the half hour mark, but pulled his attempt wide.

The most dramatic moment of the half came through another Super Eagle surge forward. Obafemi Martins fell in the box under pressure from Gohouri, only to pick up a booking for his troubles. There did appear to be the slightest bit of contact, but the Tunisian referee was adamant that the Nigerian had taken a dive.

The tempo slowed as half time approached, with it far from apparent that there was a goal in the offing.

Ivory Coast boss Gerard Gili hooked the booked Gohouri in favour of Kader Keita of Lyon at half time, replacing defensive influence with forward in an attempt to turn the game.

However, there was surprisingly little action to shout about - a Danny Shittu header wide of the target notwithstanding - in the early stages of the second period, with the midfield battle the most engrossing part of play.

But when the goal eventually came, it was well worth waiting for, and it came from the boot of Salomon Kalou. The Chelsea forward weaved his way with power and aplomb all the way from the midfield to the centre of the area, where he slotted home from twelve yards. A mesmerising run - the ex-Feyenoord man cut inside past his marker, strode into the box, turned a lunging defender, and another, reached the penalty spot and finally launched a cool finish goalwards. A world-class goal, indeed.

What followed was a world-class miss. Keite did extremely well to break past Apam into the box, but steered his close-range effort wide when hitting the target would have been easier. 2-0 it wasn't.

Nigeria then attempted to take the initiative, but the Ivory Coast took advantage of the new spaces on the pitch to drive forward. Didier Drogba tried his luck with a 35-yarder, only to trundle his effort off the defence.

The Super Eagles threw the dice, with Odemwingie coming on for Utaka and then Martins trudging off to be replaced by Makinwa. But Berti Vogts' hopes of his side becoming the "Germany of Africa" seemed forlorn as the Ivory Coast again pressed their advantage.

Tight at the back, even the offensive influence of the now-attack-minded Nigerian defensive line couldn't ruffle the Ivorians overmuch, the active Taiwo finding himself frustrated on two occasions as he sought the final ball.

Belief was clearly on the wane in the Super Eagles camp, particularly after Yakubu's low shot - perhaps Nigeria's best chance of the second half - went wide.

Indeed, the Ivorians enjoyed the final chance of the game, with Kalou shooting off-target. He'd done enough already, though - more than enough.

Drop your comment on any of my posts let me know where I am getting it wrongh

Can 2008 Update : South Africa

Rowen Fernandez Out For South Africa

A fractured finger will keep South Africa's Rowen Fernandez out of the goalkeeping slot for their African Cup of Nations opener this Wednesday...

South Africa boss Carlos Alberto Parreira has announced with a heavy heart that Rowen Fernandez will miss his side's Cup of African Nations clash with Angola on Wednesday.

Fernandez, who plays for Arminia Bielefeld at club level, is out for an indeterminate period of time, meaning that second-choice Moneeb Josephs will now inherit the number one jersey for the Bafana Bafana.

The Bidvets West keeper, who already has a handful of caps, will thus leave a vacant spot on the bench for Kaizer Chiefs stopper Itumeleng Khune, who, at the age of 20, is yet to receive a full international cap.

South Africa made their CAN debut in 1996, winning the contest at the first time of asking. Since then they have stumbled, most recently being eliminated at the first round on two occasions.