?after difficult friendlies!

Ghana?s head coach Ratomir Dujkovic is still optimistic about the chances of the Black stars in the up-coming nations? cup in Egypt.

In a post- match interview with Space FM in Sunyani, the Serbian trainer of the Black Stars said even though his team lost Sunday?s friendly against the Carthage Eagles of Tunisia, he was sure the team would rise to the occasion when they play their first game against the Super Eagles of Nigeria next Monday.

Coach Dujkovic lamented the absence of key scorers Essien, Muntari and Asamoah Gyan, which he said has affected his teams scoring abilities, culminating in the team?s non-scoring performances against Togo and Tunisia.

He was however hopeful that the inclusion of striker Mathew Amoah who was nursing an injury would raise Ghana?s fortunes when the tournament begins.

?We could have used Amoah last Sunday but didn?t want to risk? he told Space Fm.

Duja also called on Ghanaians to have faith in most of the young lads whose confidence would be given a massive boost after participating in the Cup of Nations. He however, admitted some of his boys might have over-indulged during the yuletide which has affected their conditioning, but thinks everything is under control.

Ghana?s Black Stars lost 0-2 to Tunisia in their second trial game on Sunday, after an earlier 0-1 defeat to the Hawks of Togo last Wednesday.