Konadu confident of CHAN berth

Ghana’s home-based Black Stars have stepped up their preparation for the return encounter of the Championship of African Nations (CHAN) qualifier in Abidjan, after surviving an early scare to defeat their Ivorian counterparts 2-1 at the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi last Sunday.

Two goals by Joel Fameyeh of Asokwa Deportivo, one in each half, saved the blushes of Maxwell Konadu’s charges, but the coach told the Daily Graphic he was still satisfied with the results even though he had wished for a 3-0 win to cushion the team for the return leg encounter.

Nonetheless, Coach Konadu was hopeful that the team would go to Cote d’Ivoire and secure their qualification on October 30 for a fourth appearance at the 2015 CHAN to be hosted by Rwanda.

The coach said his charges would leave their Obuasi base for Accra on Sunday to train on the astro turf at the Tema stadium to get accustomed to the pitch which is similar to the type on which the return leg will be played in Abidjan.

He said the team had no major injury worries, except for a knock received by midfielder Kennedy Ashia who is receiving treatment.

“I’m confident we will qualify for the CHAN, but I can’t reveal our plans and tactics for the return leg. Our approach is our secret,” he said.