PELE BACKS GHANA TO WIN NATIONS CUP

Ghana football legend Abedi Pele believes it is time for Ghana to win the African Cup after 29 years. The Black Stars last won the competition when he was an 18 year old.

'We deserve to win this one. Looking at our past record in recent years we really deserve to win this edition'

Speaking to local media, the 'maestro' also urged caution in the run up to the tournament, following increasing belief that the Stars will have a smooth ride to the crown. He also spoke about his surprise about the inability of some giants of African football to make it. Egypt, Cameroon and Nigeria would not be at next year's showpiece.

'It is surprising that the big guns missed (qualification for Gabon and Equatorial Guinea).

But it does not mean we have to rest on our oars. It does not mean it will be easy. We need to prepare or else we will be in for a surprise', added Abedi Pele