Hurt Renard seeks Ghana's scalp

By Veronica Commey, (GNA Special Correspondent on Equatorial Guinea, courtesy Ministry of Youth and Sports)

Bata, Feb. 7, GNA – Coach Herve Renard will lead Zambia to face Ghana's Black Stars in a semi final game at the Africa Cup of Nations in Gabon and Equatorial Guinea, with Ghana’s snub in the past on his mind.

Renard in 2008 was engaged as a physical trainer for the Black Stars and the Frenchman is not over what he calls a snub that him to bid his time.

He told GNA Sports in Bata on Tuesday that “'In 2008, I was in Ghana and though I had been coaching even before that job, I was only seen as a physical trainer. For one year my name was not changed even once. “I was hurt and disappointed because in Ghana not much attention is given to an assistant coach. But I knew my time will come. You never know when, and I am proud that today, I will face the Stars.” Renard claims that step in Ghana, though disappointing was a major one for his career on the continent. “That was my first step in Africa and it was the best start anyone could have”.

The Coach who professes great respect for the Stars, said he felt privileged working with the team then but insists the Chipolopolos has the quality to move past Ghana for a place in the final.

“Ghana is a very strong side. They have very good players like Asamoah Gyan, Andre Ayew, John Mensah, John Painstil and Agyeman Badu. If you look at their past record, you know they are a good side.

“We know their name and they know us. We have the ability to beat Ghana and we are not afraid of the difference in ranking. In ranking they are huge but we are not afraid.

“We have come this far believing in ourselves and proving what we can do. This team has matured a lot and we are able to make a difference at a crucial time. We showed that against Senegal and Libya.”

Coach Renard said he and his charges have spent no time discussion the Stars. “We spent only five minutes talking about Ghana. No more. We are rather focusing on our path. We are proud to have come this far. It is the game of our lives and it is a fantasy”.