FIFA confirms Ghana's berth for 2010 World Cup finals

ACCRA, Sept. 7 (Xinhua) -- World soccer governing body FIFA has officially confirmed the qualification of the Black Stars of Ghana for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.

The Black Stars beat the Desert Hawks of Sudan 2-0 last Sunday at the Ohene Djan Sorts stadium in Accra to move to 12 points, seven more than closest rivals the Eagles of Mali with two games to go.

FIFA General Secretary, Jerome Valcke confirmed the participation in a letter addressed to the Ghana Football Association (GFA) and copied to the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and the Organizing Committee for the FIFA World Cupon Monday.

"After two years of disputed and exciting preliminary competition in Africa, the Black Stars reached yesterday the necessary points to be crowned with success in these hard-fought qualifiers.

"We are pleased to warmly congratulate the GFA and its national team for brilliantly qualifying as the first African team for the final tournament of the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa, next to South Africa, the hosts.

The General Secretary reminded the GFA to get in contact with the 2010 FIFA World Cup Organizing Committee, South Africa in order to further advance in the logistical preparations of the tournament for the Black Stars.

Valcke added that his outfit is looking forward to a continued smooth cooperation with the Ghana Association.

The Stars next play Benin in Cotonou on Oct. 10 before wrapping up against Mali in Accra on Nov. 14.

Ghana was the only African team to reach the last 16 in their maiden attempt three years ago at the Germany 2006 World Cup.