Ghana play hosts to Nigeria in the first game of the quarter final. The hosts to build on their three victories in the first round and grab the first ticket to the semi final.

Here are my reasons for this pick:

First of all, although Nigeria did not convince at all, they still remain among the best defences of the tournament conceding only a single goal in three matches. They only lack the offensive strikeforce although they play with 5 strikers upfront. With the defence I've seen they can keep a cleen sheet today.

Second, although Ghana did score 5 goals in three matches, I believe they do not possess the needed offensive strikeforce to win the championship. They suffered against both Guinea and Benin to grab the win and they are likely to suffer against the green eagles as well.

Finally, in the last 10 tournaments (since Morocco 1988), Nigeria have never failed to reach the semi final at least. They did not participate in two tournaments (South Africa 96 & Burkina 98). But in the other 8 tournaments, they grabbed the bronze medal 4 times, the silver medal thrice, and the golden medal once. Accordingly, a small bet on Nigeria to qualify seems to be a reasonable bet as well.

Verdict: I think it's going to be a draw in the 90 minutes and most probably a goalless one too. Go for it.

Good Luck

Pick : Draw
Odds : 3.30
Stake : 3 / 10
Bookmaker : Bet365
Date : 2008-02-03
Match Result :
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