Former Ghana captain C.K Akunnor says he has been pleasantly surprised by the progress of the Black Stars at the 2010 World Cup and is now backing them to become the first African country to reach the semi-finals of the World Cup.

Akunnor who has been working at the World Cup as a television commentator was critical of the Stars in the past but says the quality of the football they have played here and the passion they have showed has been top notch.

"I am very surprised because nobody believed in this team including me. During the preparation matches they kind of did not do much to convince us but since they have been here they have been tactically very disciplined on the field of play. They are well organised and you can see the coach has brought a philosophy which they have accepted," Akunnor said.

Akunnor reckons Ghana's young team has got the better of their opponents by doing the simple things.

“They run a lot on the field of play and outrun the opponents. Names were not important in this tournament. Where they are now is about believing in themselves and they keep doing that.

“The players are committed. It's amazing. They are passionate and that is why they are where they are.”

Akunnor was also full of praise for some of the key actors for the Stars to date. "Dede Ayew has done a great job and of course Kevin-Prince Boateng has fitted in well and Kojo Asamoah has been brilliant. And Anthony Anon has been remarkable for Ghana. He controls the midfield and gives the rest of the side the strength and confidence to go forward and attack. He is our Makalele, the man who makes Ghana thick."

Against Uruguay, Akunnor expects thinks the state of mind of the players will be vital. "They need to do what they have been doing. It's about believing. They have to say it is possible."