|With eight African Nations Cup final appearances and an impressive record on the youth international stage, many believe now is the time for Ghana to deliver – and on the greatest stage of all.
For, alongside Egypt (who lost a passionate World Cup play-off with Algeria), the country from the West is considered the main footballing force of the continent.
“We are one of Africa’s most successful countries so, naturally, there will be a lot of eyes on us,” believes Fulham favourite John Pantsil. “Ghana reached the final of the African Nations Cup in January, so hopefully that form and desire can drive us through in the World Cup too.”
Ghana were the first African country to qualify for South Africa 2010 and the only one to progress beyond the group stage of the 2006 World Cup, emerging from the so called ‘group of death’, finishing a point behind eventual champions Italy and ahead of the US and the Czech Republic in Group E.
A place in the last 16 then pitted them against five-time champions Brazil, a game in which Ronaldo scored a record 15th World Cup goal in a 3-0 triumph.
“This will be our second [World Cup] finals, which makes it a big moment for us,” he says. “In Germany we did very well, but this time our fans will expect even more, and I would love to give them something to celebrate.
“I think we learned a lot in Germany, which should stand us in good stead this time. We were perhaps a little naïve against the Brazilians, but the squad is four years older now. We’re wiser.
“A lot of the 2006 squad will be involved again, plus some very good young players that have shown a lot of promise. As they say, experience counts for a lot, and we have that now.
“When our strongest 11 takes to the field, for me, we are a match for any team. On our day we can beat the best.”
Having faced Clint Dempsey’s USA four years ago, in South Africa Pantsil will go head-to-head with another familiar face six days after their opening Group D game against Serbia – this time the giant form of Mark Schwarzer, with Ghana drawn in another testing group.
“It’s another difficult draw for us,” admits John. “Looking at what lies ahead, Group D is one of the toughest for sure, with ourselves, Serbia, Australia and one of the favourites, Germany.
“But we have to have courage and take from the fact that we overcame a similar challenge four years ago. We have confidence in our ability and fear no one.
“It will be strange coming up against Mark when Ghana and Australia meet in the second game. I’m used to helping him stop goals, rather than trying to put the ball past him.
“Would I like to score in that game? Of course, because you know you have done something special when you beat Mark Schwarzer – he’s one of the best goalkeepers in the world.”
JP was speaking exclusively to Fultime Magazine. To read the full interview and the rest of a World Cup special featuring Clint Dempsey, Mark Schwarzer, Dickson Etuhu, Kagisho Dikgacoi, George Cohen, Paul Parker and Ray Houghton, plus reflection on an unforgettable season at Fulham, see this summer’s publication, delivered to Season Ticket Holders and Members this week, or available from Club stores for just £3.50. Alternatively purchase your copy online today!|