Milovan weary of USA threat

From Abdulai M. Gariba, GNA Special Correspondent, Johannesburg, South Africa

Johannesburg, June 25, GNA - Black Stars trainer Milovan Rajevac reckons a tough outing in the round of 16 clash against the United States of America on Saturday, June 26, in Rustenburg.

The Stars squeezed through to the second round of the South Africa 2010 FIFA World Cup, despite a lone goal loss to Germany in their final Group D clash last Wednesday in Johannesburg.

It is the second time the Ghanaians have reached the knockout stage of the tournament and Milovan said at a press conference on Wednesday, that his primary focus is the clash with the Yankees.

"The USA has a fantastic team, run a lot with the ball and are also very physical.

"They have a strong team with most of their players playing in top flight leagues in Europe."

The Stars trainer also mentioned USA captain Landon Donavan as one of key players to watch ahead of their crucial clash.

"They have Donavan and others who play regularly in Europe. It will be a tough match and we are preparing feverishly for the encounter." The Serb added that the Stars will play their normal style to chalk another historic feat in the tournament.

It will be the second successive time the two teams will be meeting at the World Cup and the USA will be seeking to avenge after a 1-2 loss in their group phase clash during the 2006 edition in Germany. The goal effectively shattered the progress ambitions of the Claudio Reyna-led USA team, whilst Ghana claimed a historic place at the round of 16 on their maiden attempt.

The USA finished as winners of Group C on superior goals after gaining five points apiece with once winners, England. The Black Stars remains the only African team in contention at the tournament being hosted for the first time on the Continent.