Ghana put the fright in USA

NUREMBERG: Ghana’s shock World Cup upset of the Czech Republic has put a bit of a fright into the US team. That’s music to the ears of the Africans’ 60-year-old coach, who wants the Americans to suffer on Thursday.

Ghana, which stunned the second-ranked Czech Republic 2-0 after losing to Italy, will reach the round of 16 with a victory here in a Group E match. The US team comes off a 1-1 draw with Italy and must win for any hope to advance. “Ghana were miraculous in the way they turned their game around. That in itself is frightening,” US coach Bruce Arena said. “They have momentum and confidence.”

Something else the Black Stars boast is quickness. Sparked by dynamic Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien and captain Stephen Appiah, World Cup debutante Ghana could send the 2002 quarter-finalist squad flying home.

Ghana coach Ratomir Dujkovic, a Serbian who calls this the most important match of his life, said Arena is right to be concerned.

“They have to worry. The USA will suffer because we are strong and we are not afraid of anyone,” Dujkovic said. “Ghana is young and tough. We won’t play for a draw. We always play offensive football and we play to win.” Should Ghana finish second in Group E, reigning champion Brazil is the likely foe in the round of 16.