World Cup Team Checks: Ghana

World Cup Qualifiers

A FIFA member since 1958, Ghana have finally done it. After more than four decades of trying to make the finals in vain, they will appear on international soccer's biggest stage in 2006 thanks to a play-off win against 2010 World Cup host South Africa.

Stars

The Black Stars get their inspiration from team captain Stephan Appiah and Chelsea's Michael Essien, who is the most expensive player in the history of African soccer.

Trainer

Ratomir Dujkovic took over the reigns from Mariano Barreto at the end of 2004 and is responsible for Ghana's ticket to Germany. The Serb brought a sense of team spirit and discipline to the side.

World Cup History

Germany 2006 is Ghana's first World Cup finals appearance.

Match Schedule: Preliminary Round

June 12: Italy - Ghana in Hanover

June 17: Czech Republic - Ghana in Cologne

June 22: Ghana - USA in Nuremberg

World Cup Base

Between World Cup matches Ghana will find time to rest in the Bavarian city of Würzburg.

Outlook

Ghana's coach Dujkovic will hope his team can shake things up a little during the Cup. While Dujkovic said he realizes Ghana is out of their league against Italy and the Czech Republic, but added that getting out of the preliminary round would be just as good as winning the tournament. Ghana's last international tournament in the African Cup of Nations, however, won't provide much inspiration. Dujkovic's side missed the quarter-finals by a single goal.