Confident Stevanovic aware of Mali threat

By Veronica Commey, (GNA Special Correspondent in Gabon. Courtesy Ministry of Youth and Sports)

Franceville, Jan. 27, GNA - Goran Stevanovic remains confident about delivering Ghana a Nations Cup trophy after three decades, but is well aware of the threat his next opponent, Mali represent.

Ghana must beat Mali to make passage to the quarter final much easier even before the last group game with Guinea and coach Stevanovic said he has never been this confident of side making the day.

The outcome of Saturday's meeting between the two teams, who are joint leaders in Group D could define progress and Stevanovic told GNA Sports in Franceville that “after watching the team at training, I feel so confident again”.

“The players are committed to our cause and ready to go out there and deliver. My belief in this team is very high.” He said.

The Serb understandably knows that winning the ultimate means clearing the Mali hurdle in the Franceville meeting on Saturday. “Mali is a very good side with an impressive firepower. As you can see, they were even winners over Guinea and I know they will be a very strong opponent for us.

“But we want to win the trophy, which means we must beat every team. We have a good team that is capable of beating any side in including Mali.” He stated.

The Stars are tipped alongside the Ivorian Elephants as the tournament's favourites for the trophy which Ghana has won four times. Coach Stavanovic says he would change personnel to suit the opposition the West Africans can bring in his quest to keep marching on. “I always have 20 players ready at any given time for every game. I select the best team possible depending on the level of opposition for each game.” He noted.