Coach of the Black Stars Avram Grant believes that his side is bent on starting their AFCON campaign on a winning note against the Cranes of Uganda.
Ghana have been waiting 34 years to add to their four Africa Cup of Nations crowns but can one of the tournament’s most talented squads finally fulfil their potential?
Beaten finalists in 2010 and 2015 the Black Stars have reached the semis in each of the last five tournaments but success has eluded a squad that contains star names including Andre and Jordan Ayew, Asamoah Gyan and Christian Atsu.
Striker Asamoah Gyan and West Ham midfielder Andre Ayew were part of the team two years ago, and their experience and quality is expected to help the Black Stars see off Uganda.
Uganda pair Murushid Juuko and Khalid Aucho are both suspended.
The Cranes are at the tournament for the first time since 1978, when they lost to hosts Ghana in the final.
That history adds a little extra spice to the Group D match.
More recently, however, Uganda held Ghana to a 0-0 draw in Tamale in October in qualifying for the 2018 World Cup in Russia.
Grant’s side will therefore certainly not underestimate their opponents, who are staying alongside them in the same Port-Gentil hotel.
The Black Stars are in Gabon looking to win an elusive fifth title – their last came in 1982.
Uganda have never dine better than that runners-up spot 39 years ago.
Ghana are ranked ninth in Africa and 54th in the world while Uganda are 18th in Africa and 73rd in the world.
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