Ghana captain wary of Flames
Ghana captain John Mensah insists the Black Stars will not underrate the Flames in the 2013 African Cup of Nations final qualifying round.
The Black Stars were paired with the Flames at the recent draw held in Johannesburg with the first leg expected to take place in Ghana on September 9.
The four-time African Champions are touted favourites to qualify for yet another continental showpiece after placing fourth at the 2012 flagship events.
But the Ghana captain is aware of the dangers of playing to the gallery in such situations.
“The Malawians will not come as a cheap side. What God has brought us is good. There was a draw and we were paired with them,” Mensah told Kumasi-based Fox FM.
“They are a good team and so we are not going to underrate them. The most important thing is to win our game against them. We have to put up a positive attitude and motivate ourselves. We have to meet and speak to ourselves ahead of the games.
“We are friends and we talk among ourselves regularly. We have to understand that we cannot underrate them since I am pretty sure they will do the same.”
The last time the two teams met was in January 2010 and it ended goalless as both teams tuned up for 2010 Africa Cup of Nations.
Flames injury-plagued captain Peter Mponda said there is no reason to fear Ghana’s past exploits.
“We have to draw a lot of inspiration from Zambia who have beaten Ghana twice in competitive games this year.
“I believe the coach [Kinnah Phiri] is building a youthful squad full of determination that can stop the Black Stars,” said Mponda who will not feature in both matches as he is recovering from a recurring knee injury.
