Ghana must avoid complacency against Ethiopia - Former Black Stars captain

Ghana have the potential to turn things around in the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers but must be wary of complacency against Ethiopia, says former captain Kwasi Owusu.

The Black Stars occupy third position in Group F with three points, four points behind Kenya after two games. Any results aside victory in their remaining two games, could prevent Kwesi Appiah's charges the chance of making an eighth consecutive appearance at the tournament since 2006.

"This is a game that can prove that Ghana still have quality in their squad or not so a lot is at stake," Owusu told Goal.

"Since Sierra Leone are not part of the qualifiers anymore due to the ban from Fifa, the Black Stars must avoid complacency because even a draw in Addis Ababa will end our dreams of making the Afcon finals. The players should not think that they can easily win or repeat the 5-0 defeat they recorded against Ethiopia in the first leg in front of their home fans.

"There are several players in Ghana team who are yet to taste a top competition so this is a golden opportunity for them to help and secure qualification. They should play wholeheartedly to save their future. I remember at a point in my career, I had to motivate myself in many games because I wanted to achieve something for myself so that I will be remembered after retirement.

"I scored many incredible goals in crucial games and a lot of young footballers who know of my goalscoring prowess in the past visit me for advice," he added.

Until 2013, Owusu, who captained Ghana at the 1970 Afcon held in Sudan, was the country's all-time topscorer with 36 goals before Asamoah Gyan equalled the feat. The Kayserispor striker has since extended his tally to 51 goals.