Ghana midfielder powerhouse Michael Essien has shrugged off the tough 2010 World Cup draw, confident they will make a huge impression at the tournament.

The Chelsea influential player insists the Black Stars will reach the second round of the tournament in South Africa.

The Black Stars were drawn to play former champions Germany, Serbia and AUstralia after Friday's draw in Cape Town.

Ghana reached the second round of the 2006 World Cup despite being placed in the same group with Italy, Czech Republic and USA.

Drawing on his experiences from the previous tournament, Essien says the Black Stars must not be underrated.

"This draw is similar to the 2006 draw where we had Italy, Czech & USA," Essien said.

"No one gave us a prayer but we advanced to the next stage and we will be doing the same this time.

"We respect all the other teams in the Group but we will not be running scared of any of them."

Ghana could face England in the second round if they advance and with Essien a popular figure in the English Premier League, he is keen to teach some of his team-mates a lesson or two.

"We could even face England who are in Group C if we both advance to the next stage and that will be a good match without a doubt," Essien said.

"I will love that one actually."

While confident about the chances of the Black Stars despite the tough group, he spared a thought for his Ivorian team-mate Didier Drogba.

The Elephants, considered as Africa's strongest squad, were drawn to play Brazil, Portugal and North Korea in the 'Group of Death'.

Essien said: "After the draw I thought ours was the group of death until I saw Didier's group.

"That is a group a half and definitely the group of death. We should see some brilliant fotball all round." Essien concluded

Coach Milovan Rajevac will lead the Black Stars against his native country - Serbia - on June 13 in Pretoria, in a first World Cup match-up between both nations.

The Black Stars then play Australia, a familiar opponent in Rustenburg six days later on June 19.