‘Attack Is Ghana's Bane’

Former Cameroon striker Patrick Mboma says the lack of potency in Ghana's attack could hamper the country's quest for a fifth Nations Cup trophy next month.

The Black Stars, who are hosting the tournament, have been tipped as one of the favourites for the tournament which starts on 20 January.

Ghana has a world-class midfield to be marshalled by Scotland-based Laryea Kingston, Michael Essien of Chelsea, Portsmouth's Sulley Muntari and Haminu Dramani.

But the Black Stars striking line-up led by Asamoah Gyan and Junior Agogo are not considered by many as world-class.

Mboma highlighted the existence of world-class African strikers from the continent who will be playing at the tournament and says Ghana is lacking in this area.

"Ghana seems to lack the striking fire power," Mboma told the French sports newspaper L'equipe.

"That could undo the Black Stars during the African Cup of Nations.
"Asamoah Gyan is not Didier Drogba of Ivory Coast or Samuel Eto'o of Cameroon."

Despite the problems of the Black Stars, Mboma is confident that Ghana can win the title if they adopt the Italian style of play.

"If Black Stars play a compact game as Italian coach Fabio Capello does with his teams, with the quality of their midfield and defence, Ghana can win the title," Mboma added.

Ghana has been drawn to play Guinea, Morocco, and Nambia in Group A of the tournament that starts on 20 January.