Boateng accepts CAN title lesson

Ghana midfielder Derek Boateng says the Black Stars are determined to make an impact in the World Cup qualifiers as they learn from the bitter experience of their Africa Cup of Nations setback.

The Black Stars, pre-competition favourites failed to annex a fifth continental title during the 2012 Nations Cup in January when they lost in the semi-final to eventual winners, Zambia.

And that heartache has left the Ghana international determined to right the wrongs by backing Kwesi Appiah's side to come back stronger as they begin another campaign.

Ahead of the start of the qualifying for the 2014 FIFA World Cup next weekend against Lesotho in Kumasi, Boateng says the Black Stars are already relishing the opportunity get off to a winning start in a group which includes, rivals, Zambia.

“First things first,” Boateng told www.ghanafa.org. “We have Lesotho now, we are concentrating on Lesotho. After, we can talk about Zambia.”

“We are going to do our best. We were not lucky at the African Cup of Nations. But we don't have to bow our heads. We have to aim high and make sure that we will win the games ahead of us.”

Ghana, who have made two appearances at the World Cup will be aiming for a third-straight qualifying when the continental campaign starts for places in the finals to be hosted by Brazil in two years time.

The Black Stars play Lesotho on June 1 in the opening Group D match at the Baba Yara Stadium and will follow up with an away clash against Zambia on June 9.