GhanaFA

Queens, Canarinha to thrill Beijing

17 years ago
Advertisement

Ghana will be attempting to be part of the 28 teams that would be entered into the official draw for the Olympic Football Tournaments Beijing 2008.

To be part of the Olympic hopefuls, the Black Queens must first secure a win over South American side, Brazil, tomorrow in the women's qualifying play-off in Beijing Workers' Stadium on Saturday.

Ghana, second-best team in Africa have never qualified for the Olympic Games women football event and are considered as underdogs for the game against South Americans.

However, Black Queens coach, Mumuni Gamel is satisfied with his teams build up towards the match and also happy with the match venue.

"In football anything is possible," Gamel remarked.

"The advantage in playing the game in Beijing is that it is on neutral ground, it is a one-off game so the girls will have nothing to fear."

Brazil is highly rated globally and boast of players including reigning FIFA Women’s Best footballer, Marta Vieira da Silva, but the Ghana's coach is convinced the Black Queens can neutralise the attack-minded South Americans.

"We are okay as we have done a lot for this game. I am happy with what we have done. The spirit is high.

"We know their goal scoring abilities and running. They do a lot from runs and we must stop them from goal threat positions," Gamel added.

Brazil, silver medallists four years ago in Athens and runners-up again at the FIFA Women's World Cup in China 2007, remain keen on taking the qualifying spot but admit that the pressure is on.

"There is a lot of pressure and you're always a bit wary. We have a lot of respect for Ghana, but we'll be really up for this game. What I will say is that we're very well prepared, something which will help keep our nerves in check and give us confidence," Brazilian coach Jorge Barcellos said.

Ghana emerged runners-up to their fiercest rivals, Nigeria courtesy superior goal difference after finishing nine points apiece.