Ghana are not taking their 2012 African Cup of Nations qualifying against Group I contenders Sudan lightly even though the Black Stars beat them back-to-back on their way to reaching the 2010 World Cup finals.

The Nile Crocodiles are level on three points apiece with Ghana, though the Black Stars sit top of the standings with a superior goal advantage.

Ghana, silver medalist at the last Nations Cup and who won their opening group match against Swaziland 3-0 away play at the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi.

Interim Ghana coach Kwesi Appiah says Sudan are no weak opponents and expects the Black Stars to come up against a determined side also pushing for Nations Cup qualification just like Ghana.

"Obviously we’re the strong favourites to qualify. Our recent performances has raised the level of expectation no matter the opposition we are to meet. I don't the Sudanese to buckle down for us. We would be in for a tough match but the most important thing is to stick with our game and impose it on them [Sudan]," the Ghana coach said ahead of Sunday's second group fixture.

A win on home soil would see Ghana's point tally increase to six points and take them to three points clear at the top of Group I.

Such is the result that Appiah is hoping for when his side take to the field.

"A win would boost our confidence going into the remaining qualifiers. And that is what we hope to achieve," he said.

Both sides are angling for a place at the 2012 CAN to be co-hosted by Gabon/Equatorial Guinea.