Ghana cautiously optimistic against Malawi

Ghana appear the favourites in the final round of qualifying for the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations when they come up against Malawi but Ghana Football Association President, Kwesi Nyantakyi is preaching caution.

The Black Stars will host the first leg tie at home against Malawi, two-time finalists on 9 September with the return game scheduled for the weekend of 12-14 October.

Despite being satisfied with the draw which has pit the Black Stars with a side 22 places below them on the African ranking table, the GFA President has declared himself happy and satisfied with the draw.

But that doesn’t mean they are a 2013 Nations Cup finalist just yet, he warned.

“On paper, Ghana is streets ahead of Malawi. We have tremendous experience in this competition,” Nyantakyi said after Thursday's draw in Johannesburg.

“We have a lot of achievements on our side, the benefit of history and pedigree.

“But it is very important for us to be cautiously optimistic because you can be surprised if you underrate your opponent.”

Ghana are chasing their fifth Africa Cup of Nations title.