Accra, March 23, GNA - Minister of Youth and Sports, Clement Kofi Humado has on behalf of Government sent a goodwill message to the Black Stars ahead of this weekend's Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Congo in Brazzaville.

The Black Stars will face their Congolese counterparts in the Group I fixture on Sunday, March 27 at the Alphonse Massamba Debat Stadium in Brazzaville.

A statement signed by Michael Akwasi Sarpong, Head of Public Relations on behalf of the Minister assured the playing body of the usual Government support whilst expressing confidence in the ability of the team to deliver.

"With the current position of the Black Stars as first in Africa and 16th in the FIFA soccer rating, nothing short of victory is expected from you by Ghanaians and this I know you can deliver." He expressed optimism that a win against Congo will make the difference and encouraged the team to ensure they qualify and participate in the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations tournament in Gabon and Equatorial Guinea. The Minister has also called on all Ghanaians to support and pray for the team to come out victors.