AFCON: Four countries battle for a final place

AFCON: Four countries battle for final place
Ikenna Okonkwo, Abuja

With less than a week to the final show down in the on-going Africa Cup of Nations, four countries are already in for the Semis.

The countries are favorites Cote d’ivore, Ghana, Mali and Zambia.

Ghana takes on Zambia [16.30GMT] while Cote d’ivore tackles Mali[18.30GMT].

The Black Stars booked their place in the last four when they defeated North-Africans, Tunisia 2-1 after extra time goal by Dede Ayew.

On the other hand, the Chipolopolo of Zambia had a smooth ride into semi, beating Sudan 3-0.
Both sides meet in the first semi-final match at the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations at the Estadio de Bata, as they talk tough ahead of the game.

Mali playing in the semi-final for the first time since 2004,edged  co-hosts Gabon out of the African Cup of Nations after beating them 5-4 on penalties in their quarter final clash in Libreville.

The Malians came from behind to hold the Eagles to a 1-1 draw of the tie that failed to produce a winner after 120 minutes, but Seydou Keita netted the decisive kick to take the Eagles into the last four of the tournament during penalties.

They will face Cote d'Ivoire on Wednesday at the same venue.

Elsewhere, Didier Drogba brace saw the Elephants through to the next stage as they toppled Co-host Equatorial Guinea 3-0, before heavy fans at Franceville.

However, As the four countries, file out on Wednesday, opinion are divided on which sides stage each other in the final battle on Sunday.

Ugo