Soccer News of Wednesday, 18 August 2010

Source: --

Satellites In Japan For Four-Nation Tournament

The under-20 side of west African nation Ghana are in Japan for a four-nation tournament ahead of their crucial final African qualifier.

According to Black Satellites coach Orlando Wellington, a win is not his priority, rather to use the game to fine tune their strategies against Benin.

The side will be playing against Spain, China and host Japan at the tournament which runs from August 19 to 24.

"This is probably the best test that my side needs to build up towards the crucial African qualifier,” Wellington was quoted as saying by Ghanafa.org.

"I expect my team to take it seriously and apply the methods that we've been practicing in training. The competition is expected to be tough, with one of Europe's best sides, Spain, also coming. The Asians - China and Japan - naturally will be there trying to claim honours.

"The goal is not to win the tournament but to use it as a preparatory ground for the qualifier. But if we can win it, that would be great since it would boost the morale of the boys.”

Ghana will play Benin over two legs in the final match of qualifying for a place in the 2011 African Youth Championships. The Black Satellites won the last continental competition in Rwanda a year ago and are aiming for a place in the 2011 finals to be staged by Libya.