Atsu upbeat ahead of DR Congo clash

The midfielder claims he’s conscious of the Leopards threat but believes the Black Stars are capable of surmounting the hurdle and progressing

Ghana midfielder Christian Atsu has admitted their 'poor' performance in the last group game against Egypt but feels the Black Stars have what it takes to overcome DR Congo in the quarterfinals of the Africa Cup of Nations on Sunday.

Avram Grant's men were runners-up in Group D with six points, after their attempt to achieve a flawless run was dashed by the Pharaohs.

Congo, on the other hand, topped Group C ahead of Morocco.

"The Egypt game wasn't the best but at least we've qualified and still have another game to prove to everyone that we can be the champions of Africa," Atsu said.

"There have been little injury concerns but apart from Baba Rahman, who has been ruled out of the tournament, none of the others are serious. We have a solid team to defeat Congo on Sunday and I believe we will learn from the little mistakes we made against Egypt. We must learn from our mistakes and double our efforts," he added.

No Ghana player made the Caf's best XI after the group stages but Atsu says it is not their target.

"I don't think we came here to make the best XI of the group stages, our target is to win the title. If we are able to advance to the semi-finals and final, and eventually lift the trophy, there is no way a Ghanaian player will miss out."

The Black Stars arrived in Oyem from Port-Gentil on Friday after their flight was cancelled on Thursday due to bad weather conditions.