Ghana's coach Milovan Rajevac, quite predictably, is excited at the prospect of coaching a world cup team for the first time. However, there must be a lot going on in the shrewd tactician's mind as the Black Stars get ready to face Serbia in their first game in South Africa 2010.
Unusual situation as Ghana faces his native Serbia
In an article published on fifa.com, Rajevac acknowledged the fact that he was in a difficult situation, but insists that his complete allegiance is with Ghana.
"For the first match of the World Cup my role is unusual because we will be playing against my country and I'm the coach of Ghana. This is a very difficult situation for me but I'm a professional and I will concentrate on the game,"he said.
Indeed, nothing less will be expected from the Serbian as he will be expected to bring his native knowledge of the Serbian game to bear on the Black Stars tactical strategy. It will be recalled that Bruno Metsu, coach of Senegal in the 2002 world cup in Japan/Korea led the Terranga Lions to upset his native France in the first match of that competition.
Who makes the starting line-up?
While it is easy to guess which players will feature for Ghana in goal, defence and attack, Ghana's starting midfield pretty much remains a mystery. The absence of enforcer Michael Essien leaves behind the question of a worthy replacement. There have been some expreriments but Rajevac is still shuffling his cards at the last minute. For now expect Anthony Annan and Kwadwo Asamoah to be assured of starting places. Also any of the following may start against Serbia: Stephen Appiah, Sulley Muntari, Derek Boateng, Kevin-Prince Boateng, Andre Ayew and Quincy Owusu-Abeyie.
4-5-1 or 4-4-2?
Perhaps, Milo's player selection difficulties will be settled if he's fixed on a tactical formation. He prefers, and has achieved results, playing with two holding midfielders, three attacking midfielders and one attacker. However this limits the fluidity of the game as well as goal-scoring opportunities. Ghanaian players seem to be at home with a 4-4-2 formation, having an extra striker to support lead striker, Asamoah Gyan. Whatever the coach settles on, expect several exhibitions of tactical trickery as he does battle with fellow Serbian, pal and expert trainer Radomir Antic.
Key game
Ghana is gradually warming up to the world cup after the exciting displays of the last two days. Everyone is looking forward to tomorrow's match as they believe it holds the key to the country's future in the tournament. Keta Sandlanders is solidly behind the team and hope that they will overcome Serbia tomorrow. Good luck, boys!
Picture credit. ghanafa.org
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