GHANA coach Ratomir Dujkovic yesterday revealed he wants to make his team the first African World Cup semi-finalists.

Not only does the Serb believe his players can beat Italy today he insisted they can reach the last four in Germany.

Ghana certainly have enough talent to back up that boast. Black Stars regulars Stephen Appiah, Sulley Muntari and Samuel Kuffour have all shown their worth in Italy's Serie A.

And of course they also have Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien - one of the best central midfielders around with a price tag to match.

Even an Italian side riddled with problems and scandal have to be respected, however, Dujkovic has warned the three-time world champions not to underestimate his side.

He said: "We are here to compete, not just to participate.

"We have the quality to reach the semi-final stages. Ghana want to put on a good display and our rivals have to know they will be destined to suffer.

"Whoever wants to beat us must be prepared to give their best on the pitch.

"When I look at my players I see genuine class. Essien and Appiah could become two of the biggest stars at the World Cup.

"But they are also team players and that is why I feel so confident."

Although Ghana's main weakness remains their defence, Dujkovic is confident his side will be able to stop the likes of Serie A's top scorer Luca Toni and AC Milan forward Alberto Gilardino.

He said: "Italy have a dangerous attack but we have the defensive strength to stop all of their players.

"Italy have announced some injuries. Thank God we have none. Up until this moment, all 23 players and five on standby are ready to play. "We're happy we've started scoring goals.

"This was a problem before, but it's improved. The Black Stars are a different team - you'll see."