Ghana go into tonight’s game against Italy with huge expectations to overturn the fortunes of Africa after the continent’s torch bearer, the Ivory Coast and Angola suffered defeats in their opening games.

Ahead of tonight’s clash, the World Cup euphoria has finally engulfed the Black Stars camp in Hannover and also nationwide in Ghana.

In Hannover to lend support is Ghana President, J. A Kufour and his entourage.

The Presidential team would be in the stands to cheer the Black Stars to victory.

Also joining in the party are former national Stars Abedi Ayew Pele, Anthony Yeboah, and some former stars Thomas Boakye, Nana Eshun, Joe Debrah and Michael Osei.

On the streets of Hannover are supporters clad in the national colours awaiting the Black Stars debut World Cup kick off.

Among the cheering Ghanaian party expected to be in the Hannover stadium to root for the Black Stars is a four-month old baby girl, who might be tagged at the youngest supporter of the national team.

Back home in Ghana and in the capital, Accra, the streets have been lined with the national red, yellow and green colours with the Black Star in the middle with thousands wearing various paraphernalia in Ghana colours.

The mood on the streets of Accra signifies the optimistic nature of Ghanaians and can be likened to hours before the Black Stars’ last qualifying game in Praia against Cape Verde.

“It’s like a carnival and I would remember this day. The team needs our support. They have made as proud,” a shop attendant said.

The World Cup feeling has also caught up in the markets.

A woman aged 56, who sells cutlery has a big Ghana flag tied around the table displaying her wares and not a single call for customers goes without a mention for the Black Stars.

“I pray they win. Even if the day goes with no sales, I know my children (players) would bring joy to our hearts,” she said.

Reports across the country demonstrate a sense of optimism among both football fans and non-football fans.

Meanwhile, former Minister for Education and Sports, Yaw Osafo-Maafo says it is regretful that he did not stay on as the Minister to see the Black Stars play in the World Cup.

But he was quick to add that in spite of the regret, the national interest is paramount.

Osafo-Maafo said he has decided to fast and pray today for the success of the team in the competition, and urged all Ghanaians to do same.

Osafo-Maafo, who has not travelled to join the team in Germany, said the Black Stars have the strength to beat Italy in tonight’s crunch match by a lone goal.