Zimbabwe coach Charles Muhlauri has not given up hope of his side qualifying for the next stage of the African Nations Cup as they face Ghana requiring a minor miracle to progress.

The Warriors, who have yet to score in the tournament, can still mathematically qualify for the last eight but they need to convincingly beat Ghana in the Ismailia Stadium and also for leaders Nigeria to triumph against Senegal in the other Group D match.

Zimbabwe have performed poorly so far but under-fire coach Muhlauri is determined to put things right.

``My aim is to field the strongest team possible so that we can get a positive result from that final match,'' said Muhlauri.

``Our group is tough but I think the team has competed very well. In the end it came down to just basic mistakes, our lack of concentration at crucial times.''

Despite the fact his side's fate has yet to be decided Muhlauri already has his sights set on the future, even though he may not be at the helm following recent criticism.

``I have some great plans for this team and it is my wish to continue with the job to try and build this team,'' he added.

``We are improving and I am happy with the improvement and performance but I am disappointed again with the result.

``We want to come up with a solid team. We now have a team that can compete at this level but we will need to work hard to ensure that we can avoid the defensive blunders that we have seen here.''

Ghana are working round the clock to ensure skipper Stephen Appiah is fit for the tie after the midfielder picked up a foot injury in the 1-0 win over Senegal.

The Ghanaians, who are level on three points with Senegal, will welcome back defender Samuel Kuffour who was sidelined for the last match, but are set to be without Laryea Kingston for the crucial game.

Kingston has been handed a four-match ban after an off-the-ball incident with Senegal's Habib Beye.

Ghana have lodged an appeal against the most severe suspension in the history of African Nations Cup.