The Black Satellites of Ghana will battle it out with Mali on Saturday afternoon as the battle for a World Cup ticket heightens.
While Ghana look to avoid defeat to make an appearance at the Mundial later in May, Mali are poised to subject the Satellites to a defeat to also make an appearance in Poland.
Mali after losing their opening game by 2-0 to group leaders Senegal, staged a stupendous performance against whipping boys Burkina Faso to secure a 1-0 victory in their second group game.
The Satellites after a marvelous start to their campaign, caved in to in-form Senegal, suffering a 2-0 defeat courtesy a brace from Youssouph Badji to make their last group clash with Mali a difficult task.
With Ghana’s center back problems as clear as crystal, expectations are that Coach Jimmy Corbblah will make changes to his back line to ensure stability and confidence.
Skipper Ishaku Konda and Gideon Mensah have not been telepathic in their play showing clearly that their lack of play together before the tournament is to blame for their poor chemistry.
Former U17 playmaker Sulley Ibrahim is also expected to start ahead of Enock Atta Agyei whose performance in the opening two matches has raised several unanswered questions.
Ghana coach Jimmy Corbblah has hinted that his side will be going for the kill against Mali and will leave no stone unturned.
“In times like this, it looks like you are already in the knockout stage. I believe that in such games, you have to go for a win, so that the final destination will be draw,” he said.
”The players are aware that after this, they are going to the medal zone. Mentally they are ready,” Ghana coach Jimmy Corbblah said ahead of the clash.
Mali after their opening day defeat to Senegal made amends against Burkina Faso and have since grown in confidence.
The Young Eagles who are dominated by members of their U17 side that denied Ghana a semi final ticket at the U17 FIFA World Cup in 2017 in India look relaxed ahead of the game on Saturday afternoon.
Mali coach Mahamoutou Kane appreciates the challenges and is determined to see his side stay in the competition and also pick the last World Cup ticket.
“We’re going to tackle this match with all the seriousness it deserves and try to win. We have to win because losing again will eliminate us,” he said ahead of the game.
The task looks difficult for them with Ghana looking for just a draw to qualify to the next stage but they are determined to stir Ghana’s chances with their determination.
The two sides are set for a fierce battle with as a ticket for the 2019 World Cup in Poland remains an ultimate asset.