Ghana 2008: Focus on Mali (Group B)

The Eagles emerged tops in what was described as one of the toughest groups in the qualifiers.

The Malians had to wrestle the group's only slot at the backyard of their closest contenders, Togo who they beat 2-0 in the final qualifier, thanks to a goal each from Sevilla striker Frederic Kanoute and Qatar based Mohamadou Diallo.

What a sweet revenge for the hosts of the 23rd edition of the African Cup of Nations who had suffered a similar fate at the hands of their host during the 2006 FIFA World Cup qualifying series.

Mali finished on 12 points to reach their fifth appearance at the continent's biggest football event, a match win at the expense of Togo who slipped to third behind Benin.

Though Mali, has never won the African Cup, they are one of the teams to watch out for at the coming championship.

Since they hosted in 2002 they have raised their standard and most of their players are now featuring for top clubs in Europe Fred Kanoute (Seville), Mohammed Sissoko (Liverpool), Djimi Traore (Portsmouth), Mohamadou Diarra (Real Madrid) are some of their super stars who will certainly draw the crowds to their matches.

Playing in a group with Nigeria, Cote d’Ivoire and Benin at the newly constructed Essipong Stadium, near Sekondi will surely make the Ghana 2008 tournament very exciting.

Many connoisseurs of African football have already labeled the group as the "group of deat" and it will offer football fans the opportunity to see some of the Africa Super Stars who have thrilled European fans.

Mali can best be classed as underdogs and could spring a surprise to qualify for the quarter finals.