Ghana go into their quarter-final clash with Uruguay looking to create even more history as they bid to become the first African team ever to reach the semi-finals of the global showpiece.
Senegal and Cameroon have both tried, and failed, to reach the semis of the world's greatest sporting event, being knocked out at the last eight stage.
Group Stages
1-0 v Serbia
The Black Stars started their campaign against Serbia in their opening group match in Pretoria. The Europeans established themselves as something of a dark-horse going into the tournament, while many thought Ghana might struggle in a difficult group. However, the west Africans put in a dogged performance, defending with aplomb and attacking with a swagger when appropriate. A strike from Asamoah Gyan in the last five minutes from the penalty spot earned the team the perfect start to what was to become a special tournament.
1-1 v Australia
Following their battling display against Serbia, coupled with Australia's heavy defeat to Germany, the Black Stars were looking to establish themselves as frontrunners to win the group. However, an error by Richard Kingson saw the Socceroos take an early lead through Brett Holman. It did not look good for the spirited Stars early on, but they were handed a lifeline in the 24th minute. Harry Kewell was shown a straight red card for handling on the line and Gyan made no mistake from the spot, grabbing his second of the tournament. Ghana should have gone on to claim the three points but they were unable to break down a wounded Australia, with four points from two games their reward for an excellent start to their campaign.
0-1 v Germany
Both Ghana and Germany knew going into their clash at Soccer City that a defeat could see them drop out at the first hurdle. In a rather cagey affair, the Germans came out on top thanks to a special strike from youngster Mesut Özil. The Black Stars battled throughout the match and were unlucky at times, spurning chances to equalise at the death. Despite the defeat, Ghana advanced thanks to Australia beating Serbia 2-1. Second place was a blessing in disguise, however, as they avoided England and set up a meeting with the USA in the round of sixteen.
Last 16
2-1 (AET) v USA
During the group stages, Ghana showed a lot of heart, battling their way to vital points which ensured their progression. In Rustenburg for the second round it was no different. Kevin-Prince Boateng opened the scoring in the fifth minute with a splendid solo effort which had the African continent captivated. And it was looking very good until the 61st minute when Jonathan Mensah gave away a silly penalty, needlessly bringing down Clint Dempsey. Landon Donovan converted from the spot and in the process sent the match into extra time. It looked as though the Black Stars had gone one step too far, as another 30 minutes would surely be too much of an ask after some tough matches. However, Gyan came up with the goods in the 93rd minute, using his strength to hold off both Jay DeMerit and Carlos Bocanegra before firing home with confidence. The victory meant that the Black Stars became only the third African team ever to reach the quarter-final stage and they now face a tough task against South Americans Uruguay.
Goalscorers
Asamoah Gyan (3)
One of the brightest stars to shine for Ghana this World Cup. A return of three goals in four matches shows that he has the consistency required to impress at a tournament such as this. Strong on the ball, Gyan is a nightmare to contain and will cause Uruguay's 'bully boys' a few problems at Soccer City on Friday.
Kevin-Prince Boateng (1)
Opting to represent Ghana rather than Germany at senior international level looks to have been the right choice for the Portsmouth man. Boateng has been one of the major stars for the African nation at the World Cup, with his aggression and determination fitting in perfectly with Ghana's dogged displays. His goal against the USA was deserved and taken brilliantly. Should he overcome recent fitness concerns, you can bet on the former Tottenham Hotspur midfielder impressing again.
Star Performer
André Ayew
Abedi Pele's son will not feature for the Black Stars against Uruguay due to suspension, but his displays prior to his heartbreaking booking against the USA has seen him pick up deserved praise from across the globe. The young winger has great talent on the ball, not unlike his father. So dangerous in the final third, his attacking instincts will be sorely missed in the quarter-final. Hopefully Ghana make it through just so we can see the 20-year-old in action again. He really is a massive talent.
By Andrew Hallett