Accra storms Bamako…Amid high expectations

If there is any game that Ghanaians and for that matter the Black Stars have attached premium to, then it is this Sunday's Ghana-Mali joint World/Africa Cup qualifier in Bamako.

Though it is an away encounter, optimism is high among Ghanaians to snatch victory from the jaws of their opponents to enhance their chances of making their second straight World Cup appearance.

And the sense of duty from the playing body, technical team, and the various Supporters group unions (COSUA, SUGHA, GHANSU, NSU, WOSUGA and MISUGA) re-echoes Ghana's commitment to return unscathed.

Ghana's skipper, Stephen Appiah and Italy based Sulley Muntari's absence would no doubt have a telling effect on the team, but the large supporters' groups from Ghana are expected to rally behind the team in Bamako, which is enough motivation in the absence of some of the Stars' key performers. Indeed, an opportunity has presented itself for those who will stand in the stead of the Appiahs, Muntaris, Essiens (if he fails to join his colleagues following his court issue), to prove their mettle, and that is also good for the Ghanaians, though playing on foreign soil.

The 2008 Africa's best player, Freddy Kanoute, Seidu Keita and M. Diarra will be guided by Nigerian Stephen Keshi, coach of Mali, are equally in high spirits to clinch victory to brighten their World Cup chances.

For sure, this is what has heightened tension in both camps ahead of the crucial World Cup qualifier.

The other Group D clash will see Sudan traveling to Benin to play the Squirrels. Ghana is leading Group D with three points after a game, each with Mali, Sudan and Benin following in that order.