Black Stars will survive Malawi threat – Derek Boateng

Black Stars midfielder Derek Boateng is hopeful they would survive the threat of the Malawians during their first leg of the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier on Saturday at the Accra Sports Stadium.

The Ukraine-based player told GNA Sports that they are primed for a convincing result that will boost their chances of reaching the finals of next year’s African showpiece of football event.

“We are looking forward to the game. We expect a tough test from the Malawians, just as any team that plays against Ghana wants to make an impact. It is a very important game and we are ready for the test.”

Boateng admits that the Flames will be a hard nut to crack despite their underdog status for this game and has cautioned that they can only afford to underrate the Malawians at their own peril.

“We cannot afford to underrate any team, not to even talk of Malawi. I have watched their game against Nigeria, which ended 1-1 and are very much aware of their potentials. They showed great quality in that match and we expect same when we meet them. They also possess a remarkable fighting spirit.”

This notwithstanding, the Dnipro player adds that they have set their sights on a convincing result to make the second leg in Blantyre in October a mere formality.

“We are looking forward to a convincing result to boost our chances of qualifying. We have to take our chances very well to remain on course for the results we so much desire. We are very determined to deliver.

“I will make no predictions but the most important element is we carrying the day. We play as a unit and we are bent on qualifying for the final tournament next year in South Africa.”

The winner of the two legged encounter qualifies alongside 14 others to join hosts South Africa for the tournament scheduled for 19 January to 10 February, 2013.

The Black Stars placed fourth at the last tournament held in Gabon and Equatorial Guinea earlier this year and hope to better their rating.

Source: GNA