On Wednesday, Ghana became the first and most likely will be the only African team to qualify for the FIFA 2010 World Cup knockout stage. Despite going down 1-0 to Germany, the Black Stars were helped by a superior goal difference to edge out Australia who had equal points with the African side.

Facing three times World Champions Germany at Soccer City in Johannesburg, Ghana only needed a draw to ensure a place in the last 16. But an outstanding goal from Mesut Ozil denied the Black Stars that comfort and they had to wait for a favour from the other group D match between Serbia and Australia.

Serbia required a high scoring draw to progress and was given the opportunity late in the game against Australia. With Ghana down by a goal, Australia scored twice in quick succession. The first goal came from a Tim Cahill header in the 59th minute and the second a sensational Bret Holman strike three minutes later. At this point Ghana were comfortable as Australia still needed two more goals to qualify.

But a nervy ending to both matches was set in the 85th minute. Serbian striker, Pantelic pulled one goal back for Serbia. The tide had changed again; one more goal from Serbia would have sent Ghana on their way home. But in the end Australia held on for the victory and gifted Ghana a fluky qualification.

In the knockout stage Ghana faces a tricky fixture against hard fighting USA. The Americans have already displayed great determination in the tournament; holding England to a one all draw, coming from two goals down to hold Slovenia and sealing their qualification into the last 16 by beating Algeria with a 92nd minute goal. There will be no clear favourites when the two teams meet but most analysts predict that the match will likely not be settled in 90 minutes and will be decided by a penalty shootout.