The Stars' Chance

When the Black Stars of Ghana take on Mozambique in a double header this long easter weekend, it will be in full control of the qualifying group H. The Stars have already amassed 6 points from the opening two games, scoring eight goals and conceding only one.

The 7-1 thrashing of Mauritius and the hard fought one nil victory against Rwanda in Kigali sits the Stars comfortably on top of the table. Ghana are on course to qualify for another Cup of Nations, a competition the country has not won in 34 years but came so close in the last edition. This piece is not to remind us of that painful penalty shootout loss to neighbours Ivory Coast.

After the Brazil debacle, that AFCON had Ghana won would have fixed the relationship between the fans and the team. It did not happen and the general feeling was "they've disappointed us again", "why did we even believe?"

The Stars however can fix this relationship slowly; The performance Grant and his charges put out in the next two games against Mozambique could help. Another 7-1 may be too much to ask but the people of Ghana would love to see a Stars team attacking, creating chances and playing their hearts out. Many do not doubt that Ghana will come out on top especially in the home fixture but for a country that loves our good football, a good performance and result will do a lot to warm the hearts of Ghanaians. This young team has the ability to play and wow the fans. The manner of the win counts a lot and win with panache would be truly appreciated.

Avram Grant has named a strong squad, mostly players he has trusted in his tenure. Often criticised for not giving other players a chance the opportunity presents itself now. If Ghana beat Mozambique home and away over this international break then Ghana would have qualified. The gaffer can then invite all the players on the periphery for the next two qualifiers. Something many in the football fraternity want to see.

So when the players march out on the field this Thursday, they could achieve a few good things. Qualify with aplomb first of all, play to give the fans a treat and win their love back and also gain the results that mean players knocking on the doors get a chance to strut in the white of Ghana.

The stage is set for the Black Stars to twinkle, we hope it is the twinkling that leads to a supernova shine in Gabon next year.