Minnows Niger can still make it through in case they beat title contenders Ghana, while the Black Stars only need one point to qualify, although a victory would see them remain at the top of their group.

Before the tournament finals stated, Niger had been considered one of the weakest sides at the 2013 AFCON and they didn’t do much to shake off the unwanted tag.

Menas did produce two battling performances against Mali and Congo DR, but having failed to score a single goal they were very fortunate to pick up one point from the two matches.

The good news is they are still within a shot of a place in the quarter-finals, although given they need to beat in-form Ghana to go through, I certainly wouldn’t be backing Niger to qualify, even if the odds are 7.00 (6/1) at Ladbrokes.

Boss Gernot Rohr will not be changing his game plan for the Ghana match as another solid defensive showing would allow Menas to hit their more illustrious opponents on the break, so don’t expect too adventurous approach from the nominal hosts.

With no fresh injuries to report, Rohr is likely to stick with the same side that earned a credible draw against Congo DR.

Probable starting line-up (4-2-3-1): Daouda – Bachar, Chikoto, Dan Kowa, Fatoukouma – Koudize, Soumaila – Maazou, Lancina, Issoufou – Sidibe.

Even with several star players missing, Ghana arrived in South Africa full of confidence and ready to launch a fresh assault on the coveted title.

The Black Stars kicked-off their campaign in style, scoring either side of half-time break to create a two-goal lead against Congo DR, but the complacency ended up costing them dearly as their opponents got back into the game and earned a valuable point.

Ghana then faced a difficult game against a very good Mali side, but apart from the early scare when goalkeeper Dauda was almost sent off, they completely dominated the match and fully deserved a 1-0 victory.

Kwesi Appiah’s side now need just one more point to secure their place in the quarter-finals, but a win would see them qualify from the top of the group, so bear in mind SkyBet pays 1.44 (4/9) on away win.

Winger Wakaso Mubarak misses out through suspension, while Richmond Boakye is still out with a groin problem.

Captain Asamoah Gyan has missed training on Saturday, but he is, nonetheless, expected to start against Niger.

Probable starting line-up (4-2-3-1): Dauda – Paintsil, Vorsah, Boye, Afful – Rabiu, Badu – Adomah, K. Asamoah, Atsu – Asamoah Gyan.

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