Now that we have calmed down the pessimists and naysayers, the Black Stars of Africa are to be congratulated for their achievements thus far. Tempered congratulations they must be, because we are now in the middle of the battle field of World Soccer. Only the best 16 teams are on their football feet.

From this point on, there is little any one can do for our valiant ambassadors. The elite remaining teams are separated not by talent but by discipline, attitude, desire, will, courage and most of all belief in their ability to decorate their national living rooms with the most prized trophy of universal sports. The Black Stars must understand that they are on a continuing journey started by the Derby?s of the Gold Coast and their soccer ancestors from the great clubs like the Republicans, Asante Kotoko, Independence, Olympics, Hearts and others of the Golden Age of Ghana football, who were denied the opportunity to showcase their talents on the world stage by the loaded dice of FIFA.

The selection of the world?s top 32 teams remains highly inequitable. Fifty-three African Football federations now vie for 5 spots and in Europe 52 Federations compete for 14 positions. The Black Stars of Ghana should take note of their own recent storied heritage. This generation of the Black Stars has been 4 - time U 17 World Finalists in 1991, 1993, 1995 and 1997. They were U17 World Champions in 1991 and 1995, beating Spain and Brazil respectively. We have no reason to doubt our talent but do we have the nerves of steel to proceed to the round of eight?

We have turned the dreams of America?s soccer moms around whom the Chrysler minivan was built, into a nightmare just as our dreams were squelched for so many decades by FIFA?s years of discrimination against African soccer. Americans will never forget Ghana. The Brazilians already have their trembling hands on their rosaries. They know that juggernaut of African football is rolling down the road on which they travel. We must and will shatter the myth of Brazilian invincibility.

We are in Germany to win the World Cup. If Brazil are the favorites then on Tuesday, we are in the finals and must prevail if our mission is to win the cup. Every match from this point on is a final match for the losers. Besides, Essien deserves a few more games beyond the Brazil match.

So, we must guard against indecisiveness, sloppiness, tentativeness and must not give up possession unnecessarily. Never should we give up an opportunity, hoping for another later in the game. That ?let us see what will happen? in our national character has no place here. We have to believe in ourselves and capitalize on every opportunity with a winner?s determination.

Dujkovic has done his job. The question is whether the Black Stars can taste the cup. If they can taste it already, then this trophy is justly theirs. It is all about discipline because it is a war and Dujkovic has been right all along. It is all about discipline, attitude and belief in oneself. We believe in the Black Stars but it is more important that they believe in themselves. If they are hungry enough for the cup then they will feast at the table of the finals and emerge with the most coveted prize of sports in the world.

May their soccer ancestors strengthen their resolve to win the world cup for Ghana and Africa. I still believe in the Black Stars as I did as an 8 year old boy and I know I am not alone. To the Stars I say: ?Do not be afraid of greatness.?

Dr. Thaddeus P. Manus Ulzen

Email: tulzen@yahoo.com

Copyright ? Elwin Publishing 2006