Ghana's Michael Essien is the main threat to USA's hopes of reaching 16 Round, USA coach Bruce Arena said. "Essien is one of the top players in this tournament," he was quoted as saying by FIFAworldcup.com "He not only organized their attack, he played well on defense," Arena said of Essien's performance in Ghana's outstanding 2-0 win over the Czech Republic Arena said denying the Chelsea midfielder control would be a strategy for USA's match against the Black Stars. "He's a player who is brilliant. We can't let him do what he wants for 90 minutes or we're going to lose," the American boss said. Chelsea paid 38 million Euros ($37.7 million) to bring Essien from French champions Lyon. The transfer broke the record for the largest ever transfer fee for an African player which had been held by Chelsea teammate Didier Drogba. Essien's ability to coordinate the backline and serve as a creative force in attack has impressed his US counterpart Landon Donovan.
. "Essien is dynamic. He is the modern two-way player. He plays tough defense and he scores a lot of goals," Donovan said. "He's going to hurt you if you're not aware of where he is all the time. So we're going to be aware." Essien is conscious of the impact Thursday's match against the USA could have for Ghana and he is confident his side will be victorious. "We will go for a win against the US team. They play good football and they will be tough," the 24-year-old star said. "And our chances are good I think." A win would allow the first-time World Cup contenders into the Round of 16 where the Black Stars face the possibility of a match against Brazil. "It would be hard, but we are prepared for it. We're not afraid to meet the Brazilians," Essien said. "We are ready to play anyone. First we have to deal with the USA."
