24 Jun 2010

Ghana's qualification causes African celebrations

2:53 pm on 24 June 2010

All of Africa is celebrating Ghana's achievement in reaching the World Cup second round.

Ghana lost 1-0 to Germany in their last group D but still qualified for the knockout phase ahead of Australia on goal difference.

Ghana, who became the first African side to progress as the World Cup makes its debut on the continent, will feel support from millions of people including host South Africa.

The Ghanian defender Hans Sarpei, who has played his whole career in Germany, says there is a sense of relief.

Despite having six teams in the group stage, Ghana are very likely to be the only African side in the last 16 with Algeria, Cameroon, Nigeria and the hosts already out.

Ivory Coast have only the faintest chance of advancing.

Ghana next play Group C winners United States in Rustenburg this weekend in their second round match.