Michael Essien is anticipating a tough encounter in Bloemfontein on Sunday when Ghana plays Lesotho in a Group 5 match of the 2010 African Nations Cup and World Cup qualifier.

The midfielder told KickOffGhana.com that he hopes for a lone goal win for the Black Stars which would hand Ghana a second successive win in the qualifiers.

Lesotho might not be ranked a strong footballing side but Essien does not expect an easy walk over for Ghana at the Free State Stadium on Sunday.

"First I think the start we had against Libya was very important,” the Ghana midfielder said.

“It means we will go in against Lesotho with our confidence high but I will be expecting a tough game against Lesotho.

"It is true we don't know much about them but it will be down to us to make sure we are not caught unawares and prove how good a side we truly are."

And for Essien, a member of Ghana’s last World Cup squad, another qualification to the 2010 tournament to be hosted in Africa for the first time is spurring him on to help the Black Stars secure a place at the finals.

"For me personally it’s a huge thing because I want to play at the World Cup again and I think for the nation, it will be great for Ghana football if we are able to appear for the second straight time."