The African Cup of Nations quarter-finals get under way with two tough encounters including three teams who will be in the 2010 World Cup. In Luanda, hosts Angola take on Ghana who have yet to impress after scraping through to the last eight with a lame victory over Burkina Faso. The other match will see title-favorites Ivory Coast clash with Algeria in Cabinda, the only contest between two World Cup finalists. Angola "This is the best opportunity yet. The game is bigger than the match that took Angola to the last World Cup," said Angola boss Manuel Jose. Team News: Angola should be boosted by the return of top scorer Flavio Amado, who missed the Algeria game with a hamstring problem. But the Palancas Negras are sweating over the fitness of Ahli full-back Gilberto. Star man: The strike partnership of Manucho and Flavio is Jose's main weapon. Player to watch: Skilful winger Mabina is a creative asset for the Angolans. Ghana "We are aware of Angola's home advantage, but that will not intimidate us," said Ghana coach Milovan Rajevac. Team News: The Black Stars miss talisman Michael Essien, who has been ruled out for a month with a knee injury.
Gervinho Star man: Youngster Andre Ayew has proven to be Ghana's most impressive player with the absence of Essien. Player to watch: Midfielder Kwadwo Asamoah. Ivory Coast "Algeria is a team that deserves respect because, I remind you, they eliminated Egypt in qualifying for the World Cup. It will be very difficult and very tight," Bosnian coach Vahid Halilhodzic said. Team News: Arsenal full-back Emmanuel Eboue is suspended after being sent off in the game against Ghana. Star man: No one is more reliable than Didier Drogba in such big occasions. Player to watch: Young playmaker Gervinho. Algeria "I had a lot of criticism after losing the opening game, but we are here now and have qualified to the quarter-final. We will now try to improve in the remaining matches," said Rabah Saadane. Team News: Goalkeeper Faouzi Chaouchi is a major doubt due to a back injury. Mourad Meghni and Yassine Bezzaz are also doubtful. Star man: Schemer Karim Ziani is the primary playmaker for the Fennecs and could be very dangerous in dead-ball situations. Player to watch: Saadane's team are renowned for their intact defense and the in-form Rafik Halliche is pivotal at the back.
