Cape Coast, Jan. 18, GNA - Several enthusiastic soccer fans in the Cape Coast Metropolis on Friday gathered in groups to discuss the up-coming CAN 2008 soccer tournament which kicks off in Accra on Sunday, January 20.

Many of the fans the GNA Sports spoke to prayed for the success of the Black Stars and were positive that Ghana will win the opening match when she clashes against Guinea and predicted a 2-0 score-line. Contrary to some previously apathetic views by some residents on some radio stations that the people are insensitive to the impending tournament, the soccer fever is gradually gripping residents of the Metropolis with many of them seen buying paraphernalia for the tournament.

Another interesting aspect of the atmosphere is that most Churches have also been caught in the soccer frenzy and are devoting some time since last Sunday to pray for the success of the Stars' with even young girls so much involved in the discussions and also praying for the success of the nation.

A 21-year old apprentice hairdresser, Ms Gertrude Wilson said she was undertaking a dry-fast to solicit the "Hand of God" for Ghana during the match, whiles Ms Gladys Egyin, a senior apprentice hairdresser of the "Queen's Salon" told the GNA Sports that her church would from this evening offer a special prayer session for the Black Stars. Some taxi drivers and other residents were all optimistic that Ghana would win the match with most people also seen dressed in the national colours to signify their support.