Germany identify Essien threat

The draw for the 2010 World Cup finals in South Africa is over and now the job starts for the 32 coaches who will lead their teams.

For the coaches, it's about identifying the strengths and weaknesses of their opponents before the summer's showpiece.

Ghana were handed a place in Group D where they will come up against former champions, Germany, Serbia and Australia.

The German's have already spotted Michael Essien as the key player they need to stop when they play Ghana. That game, the final group clash is scheduled for June 23 in Johannesburg.

“Michael Essien is the man Germany has to stop if they are to take maximum points off Ghana in their first competitive meeting at senior level at next years World Cup,” Germany coach Joachim Low has said.

Low remains concerned about the impact the Chelsea player can make in Ghana's quest to advance past the first round.

“Ghana are going to be very difficult to play against due to their physical strength and in Michael Essien they have a real superstar,” Low said.

“I will have to ring Michael Ballack to get some inside info on Essien. The Ghanaians played well at the 2006 World Cup and have improved over the past few years.

“It's going to be difficult but it's an interesting draw. I don't think we need to fear any of the sides we are up against because we've got a very strong squad ourselves."