Africa Cup of Nations preview: Ghana

The Black Stars are one of the most successful countries in Africa Cup of Nations history, having won the competition on four previous occasions.

However, their last success heading into this year's tournament was back in 1982.

This time around they have the advantage of having a coach that knows all about this competition. After all, James Kwesi Appiah was part of the Ghana squad that was the last to lift the trophy 31 years ago.

They reached this stage thanks to a 3-0 aggregate victory over Malawi in qualifying.

Group: B

Players to watch out for:

Asamoah Gyan

The striker proved his worth to Ghana on the international scene during the 2010 World Cup, which like this year's AFCON, was hosted in South Africa. He scored three times at the tournament and has also been in good form in front of goal recently, having found the net in two friendlies against Egypt and Tunisia. The former Sunderland frontman is also Ghana's captain.

Kwadwo Asamoah

Rather than being a midfielder with an eye for goal, Asamoah is the type of player that is more at home breaking up play before picking out a teammate with a pass. His style has made him a favourite with Juventus and he was key player in their surge to the Serie A title last season.

Previous best: Winners 1963, 1965, 1978, 1982

Odds outright to win: 6/1

Sports Mole says: Runners-up