Sudan aside, there’s a glaring geographical gap at this year’s African Cup of Nations. Andrew Crawford has a few ideas why:

Watching the current African Cup Of Nations (ACON), it is somewhat tellingly awkward how there isn’t a stronger presence from countries from East Africa, although the same could be said for almost every ACON and since it began.

The harsh reality for teams from that region is that for all the players they might have, what often trips them up is perpetual incompetence of the football administrations of these countries. With bickering in the upper echelons of the footballing set-up, the final product on the pitch is often scrappy and beset with constant managerial changes and poor organisation.

I saw the problems faced by an East African team looking to qualify for a tournament outside of the region for myself during my time spent living in Kenya as ‘the Harambee Stars’ attempted to qualify for the 2010 ACON and the World Cup later that year in South Africa.

Kenya had a reasonably solid pool of players to choose from, notably Auxerre’s Dennis Oliech and McDonald Mariga, but what let them down at the time, as it probably did before and after that ill-fated qualification run, was the constant interference from the Kenyan Football Association (KFA).

The rot that scuppered the side in 2009 effectively started as far back as 2004, the year Kenya last made in ACON, when rival factions within the KFA tussled for overall control of the national team and the political infighting resulted in an international ban from FIFA.

Then in July 2006, the newly appointed national team coach, Bernard Lama, resigned after two months and one game (a 2-1 home defeat to Eritrea), citing several disagreements with KFA. Later that year, several top-flight Kenyan clubs led by Canadian, Bob Munro, chairman of Nairobi-based, Mathare United, attempted to form a breakaway league in protest of the KFA’s corruption and incompetence. Another FIFA ban was slapped on the country whilst Munro, a twenty-year resident who had set up and funded several sports projects in Nairobi’s slums, was threatened with deportation by the country’s then sports minister, Maina Kamanda for stirring the pot.

Despite their reintroduction to the world stage in 2007, complete with a new governing body, the sinisterly-named Football Kenya Limited (FKL), chaos continued to reign. Lama’s ‘long-term’ replacement, Jacob ‘Ghost’ Mulee quit after only a year whilst Francis Kimanza was sacked twelve months later despite taking Kenya to the final of the 2008 CECAFA Cup (a tournament for Central and East African nations).

Following the sacking of Kimanza in early 2009, the KFA quickly hired the well-travelled German manager, Antoine Hey, who by all accounts had never been to Kenya or the East African region itself. A journeyman midfielder who had reasonably successful spells with Schalke and Fortuna Koln, he had managed a variety of small African countries; Lesotho (2004-2006), Gambia (2006-2007) and Liberia (2008-2009) before arriving in Nairobi after his spell with the Lone Stars.

The German quickly made it clear that he wasn’t going to be messed around and even refused to fly to Nigeria until the FKL could prove they actually had the money to pay his wages (this was not unprecedented- two previous Kenya managers left their jobs without being paid in full). After losing in Lagos and then away in Tunisia and Mozambique, alarm bells started ringing after a 5-0 defeat to Kuwait two weeks before Kenya’s home game to Nigeria.

The FKL, fearing a public backlash at Hey’s inability to win a game during qualification, took the decision to go behind the German’s back and recalled a number of players to the national side. Amongst the new inclusions was Oliech, dropped by Hey for several poor performances, Jamal Mohammed, who didn’t have a club after being released several months earlier by Swedish side, Enkopings, and Emanuel Ake, who had not played for Kenya in five years .

This was the final straw for the German, who got on the first plane back home without telling anyone. The FKL only found out what had happened when they got a phone call telling them to pick up Hey’s abandoned car from Jomo Kenyatta airport.

Left holding the baby, assistant manager Twahir Muhiddin, who had already acted as an interim coach in 2004, strode the touchline for the crucial tie with a squad whilst a plucky Kenya team fought hard against their hosts but lost 3-2 after goals by Obafemi Martins and Yakubu.

Mulee came back to the national team for a fourth time in 2010 and was impressively brash when discussing the future of the Kenyan national team:

‘For me, [the 2012] African Cup of Nations football is our right and then after that, we should be aiming for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil’.

Yet three months later, Mulee quit after the team’s terrible performance in the CECAFA Cup and the FKL, who shouldn’t have allowed the coach back (he resigned after a day in his second spell in 2005) then hired Zedekiah Otieno. He lasted a year before being sacked after Kenya inevitably failed to qualify for the ACON. Kimanza is now back for another go at leading his country to any sort of success, although how long he lasts is anyone’s guess.

As someone who holds Kenyan football very dear to his heart, the plight of the national team at the hands of its administrators is both painful and shocking to see. A country that is passionate about football deserves to have a fighting chance of making a big international tournament but that opportunity is forever denied to them by the actions of a handful of protected bureaucrats. The same could be said of many of the countries in East Africa but it stands out the most in Kenya. Until changes comes to the board room of the Harambee Stars, the country’s population will be watching other teams chase glory and wishing it could be them.

Andrew Crawford is a columnist for Just Football specialising in East African and Chinese football. Read more from Andrew here.

(photo credit: Jacobus van Eeden on Flickr)

Tales from Tier Two is a series on Just Football in partnership with @tiertwofooty, in which we assess the promotion chances of the clubs in tier two of Europe’s major leagues at the midway point of 2011/12. We’ve looked at France’s Ligue 2, Germany’s Bundesliga II, Spain’s Segunda and Italy’s Serie B. After leaders West Ham United, Football League correspondent James McMath now runs the rule over the Southampton, second in the English Championship, and their fellow promotion hopefuls:

When Nigel Adkins held his last post-match press conference at Scunthorpe United, on September 11, 2010, there was a lot of love in the room.

It was his farewell match. Everyone knew it, even though no one was saying it. The Iron had been beaten 2-0 at home by Bristol City and Adkins was off to pastures new. A better offer had come along, albeit from a team in the division below.

No one resented him for it, Southampton clearly had a bright future. Even Scunthorpe fans and members of the press who had covered United for decades accepted as much. Southampton had new money, a modern infrastructure and, perhaps most alluring to Adkins, a squad that was capable of much better than they were faring at the time.

After all, the former physiotherapist had built his early managerial career getting more out a squad than he had any right to.

Southampton were 22nd in League One when he took charge at St Mary’s the day after that press conference. By the end of the season, they were second and Adkins had sealed his third promotion from League One.

If that surpassed expectations, what he and the Saints have done so far this season has been simply stunning. (Hands up alert: predictions for the season will testify shock factor).

Southampton’s success so far stems from self-belief. While many were casting doubt on whether they could cut it at a higher echelon, the players were brimming with bravado.

You see, Adkins is Mr Motivator. Professor Positive. Dr Don’t Listen To What Anyone Else Says. Reading or listening to any interview with him will tell you that. It’s on good authority that one of his post-match rituals is to list on a whiteboard the main good and bad incidents from the game before drawing a thick, definite line under them all, instructing his players to move on. Win, lose or draw. Forget it.

Picking up from where they left off last season, their home form has been exceptional, the best in the division. They have lost only twice at St Mary’s and won 11 of the 15 games there so far.

But both of those home defeats have come since December 30th. Does that make it a wobble? They have lost three of the last five league games at all venues.

Adkins is yet to steer his team through a sticky spell and – if this is one – how they come through it will be the measure of him and his team this season.

There is little margin for error and others are ready to pounce.

Position: 2nd

Points clear of chasing pack: 1

Will last the pace or tire in the race? Clinging on to automatic promotion will be a bridge too far for Adkins and his team. A nerve-jangling ride through the play-offs awaits.

Predicted final position: 4th

Key Man: Adam Lallana: A talented, creative force for the Saints. Keeping him and Rickie Lambert fit and on-song, will be vital to their run-in.

The Contenders

Cardiff City, Birmingham City, Middlesbrough and Hull City occupy the play-off places, with the Bluebirds best placed to make an assault on the top two.

After coming so close under previous boss Dave Jones, the Welsh club are certainly due. New manager Malky Mackay has done a sound job, overhauling the squad and blending youth and experience well.

Birmingham City, managed by Chris Hughton, look likely to really challenge for a playoff place. The Blues are unbeaten in seven league games and the emergence of talented winger Nathan Redmond has provided a timely injection.

Middlesbrough have continued the good work done under Tony Mowbray at the end of last season after Gordon Strachan’s unsuccessful tenure. Despite extensive cost-cutting, Boro still have one of the highest payrolls in the division. But at
least fans are starting to see a return for the money. Eleven-goal striker Marvin Emnes has been a revelation.

Hull City, in sixth place, are tough to read. The Tigers are so much better to watch under rookie manager Nick Barmby than his predecessor, Nigel Pearson, but seem to lack the steel they had during that period.

Barmby trusts his players to express themselves and be creative in key areas but the squad is young and the lack of nous is sometimes evident.

Brian McDermott is proving Reading are no flash in the pan after reaching the play-off final last year and, if the Royals can turn some defeats into draws, expect them to be in the mix.

Who do you think will be promoted from the Championship? Comments welcome below. Follow the link for more Tales from Tier Two including Spain, Italy, Germany and France.

(photo credit: Laurence Horton via Flickr)

My latest African football column for FourFourTwo looks at Senegal, who slumped to bottom of their group and an early trip home despite being one of the pre-tournament favourites. Why did they fail?

To really grasp the nature of Senegal’s spectacular failure at this Africa Cup of Nations you need only look at the teams who finished above them in Group A. For Senegal to finish below Equatorial Guinea is surprising, unfathomable even. But to finish below Libya, given the vast gap in quality and wildly differing paths they travelled before meeting in Bata, is astonishing.

Consider it for a moment. Libya is a team that had to overcome political divisions, a full-scale, bloody revolution, a qualifying campaign in which they could only play one game at home due to the conflicts, the suspension of their domestic league and – as if all that wasn’t enough – the death of their team doctor the night before a crucial qualifier.

Head over to FourFourTwo to read the full piece.

Tales from Tier Two is a series on Just Football in partnership with @tiertwofooty, in which we assess the promotion chances of the clubs in tier two of Europe’s major leagues at the midway point of 2011/12. We’ve looked at France’s Ligue 2, Germany’s Bundesliga II, Spain’s Segunda Division and Italy’s Serie B. Now, James McMath runs the rule over Championship leaders West Ham United.

West Ham United

Did anyone really ever doubt Big Sam? Well, except for the Venky’s, of course.

Allardyce was shown the door by the Blackburn Rovers owners in December 2010 and spent six months waiting for the chance to prove them wrong. It was afforded him by the Hammers and, half way through his first season, Allardyce is well on his way to making his point.

With 28 games gone, the Irons are sitting pretty at the top of the Championship, three places below Rovers, who face the fight of their lives to stay in the Premier League.

Allardyce’s biggest achievement so far is managing the expectation that surrounded West Ham in the early stages of the season. They were expected to go up. They were expected to do it as champions.

After a sticky start at home (losing the opener, and drawing the subsequent home fixture), observers wondered if they could do it. Would Allardyce’s notoriously pragmatic approach cut it with those season ticket-holders brought up at The Academy Of Football?

Detractors were quite quickly silenced. Steadily, the Hammers cruised into the automatic promotion places, hitting second after 11 games and only briefly dropping to third on New Year’s Eve with a surprise defeat at a resurgent Derby County.

Never mind. Three wins in a row since then has seen Allardyce’s men hit top spot, casting aside new kids on the block Southampton, who have enjoyed a sensational first half of the season after promotion from League One, in the mould of Norwich City.

Can West Ham keep it up? It seems the toughest part of their season is behind them. In overcoming that early-season pressure and showing why they are regarded as the division’s big boys, confidence has snowballed and, despite a recent heavy defeat to Ipswich, promotion is theirs to lose.

The East London club’s squad oozes with pedigree. There was no fire sale upon relegation. Key personnel (and big earners) such as Robert Green, Jack Collison, Mark Noble and Carlton Cole have remained. The loss of Scott Parker and Demba Ba has been counterbalanced with astute recruits such as Kevin Nolan and Sam Baldock. The January transfer window has brought further reinforcements, including the high-profile arrival of former Manchester United starlet Ravel Morrison.

These are players who should see West Ham home and hosed.

If the Hammers complete their feat and make an immediate return to the top flight, then the club’s board, often the target of derision, should be applauded for keeping their heads.

Position: 1st

Points clear of chasing pack: 3

Will last the pace or tire in the race? Squad has quality and experience to stay out in front.

Predicted final position: 1st

Key Man: Mark Noble – Consistently one of the Hammers’ star performers from midfield. Can create, score and deadly from set pieces.

Up next: Southampton and the chasing pack.

(photo credit: diamond geezer on Flickr)

Just Football’s Tales from Tier Two series, in association with @tiertwofooty, continues now as we continue with Spain’s Liga Adelante. First we assessed the promotion chances of Deportivo La Coruña in Spain’s Segunda Division, now for Real Valladolid and the challengers:

Real Valladolid

Real Valladolid have been in and around the top six all season in Spain’s Segunda Division following a run of just 2 defeats in 22 games since kicking off the season with a 3-0 win at Gimnastic Tarragona. Cordoba were beaten 2-0 the following week before another victory over Gimnastic Tarragona, this time a 6-0 Copa Del Rey victory as Valladolid stated their intentions to the rest of Liga Adelante.

Founded in 1928, Valladolid have bounced between the 1st and 2nd divisions in Spain for the vast majority of their history, slipping down to the 3rd tier in 1970/71. In the last 20 seasons Valladolid has hosted La Liga football on 14 occasions. The trophy cabinet is not exactly brimming with silverware; they won the now defunct Spanish league cup in 1984 beating Atletico Madrid and finished runners up in the Copa Del Rey to Athletic Bilbao in 1950 and to Real Madrid in 1988/89.

They do hold some records though. Under Jose Luis Mendilibar in 2006/07 Valladolid won Liga Adelante with a record 88 points, 26 ahead of 4th placed Ciudad de Murcia. This included a 29 unbeaten game run from October to May before promotion on the 22nd April, the earliest any team has done so in Spanish history. Strikers Victor & Joseba Llorente both finished in the top 3 in the scorers charts with 37 goals between them. Valladolid have featured in European competitions on 3 occasions in 1984/85, 1989/90 & 1997/98 where they reached the quarter finals of the Cup Winners Cup before going out on penalties to Monaco.

Serbian Miroslav Djukic is currently in charge at the Jose Zorrilla Stadium, a former stalwart defender for Deportivo & Valencia. Djukic coached Partizan Belgrade and Belgian side Mouscron before a 3-month stint at Hercules last year in which he failed to save them from relegation. Djukic has also managed Serbia under 21s.

In recent times Valladolid lost Pedro Lopez to Levante and Antonio Barragan to Valencia but made some shrewd signings of their own. Goalkeeper Jaime joined from play off finalists Elche, Victor Perez joined from Liga Adelante rivals Huesca and has proved to be a good signing. Left back Mikel Balenziaga came in from Athletic Bilbao and has been almost ever present and 3 players came back from loans to feature heavily this season – Bueno from Derby, Manucho from Manisaspor and Marquitos from Villarreal B.

Striker Javi Guerra has hit 8 goals in 16 games and Valladolid have battled to keep his services with Glasgow Rangers making enquiries as to his availability recently. Guerra joined Valladolid at the beginning of last season from Mallorca for around 300,000 euros but the club now value him at around 8 times that amount. The midfield is very strong going forward with the likes of Oscar Gonzalez, Nauzet and Sisi regularly weighing in with crucial goals to help out the strike force as Valladolid aim to better last season’s playoff defeat to Elche and reclaim their La Liga status.

Position: 2nd

Points clear of chasing pack: 2

Will they last the pace or tire in the race? One of cluster of quality sides more than capable of gaining promotion

Predicted Final Position: 4th

Key Man: Javi Guerra, the main goal threat for the Pucela, it is key he stays if Valladolid are to be in the end of season mix.

Liga Adelante – The Challengers:

Any one of the teams currently occupying the four playoff places (Celta Vigo, Almeria, Hercules, Elche) are more than capable of claiming promotion to La Liga. Add Cordoba and Real Murcia who sit just outside the top six and you have a thrilling climax to the Liga Adelante season in store.

A little over 15 months ago Hercules announced themselves to La Liga by winning 2-0 in the Nou Camp but it is their away form at the minute that is a cause of concern for Juan Carlos Mandia’s men as only 1 win from their last 5 games away from their Jose Rico Perez Stadium (albeit a great win at Celta Vigo) has seen the Herculanos drop out of the automatic promotion places.

Last season’s playoff finalists Elche are firmly in the mix and led at the winter break before defeats to Alcoyano, Gimnastic Tarragona and Cordoba saw them slip to 6th but with a highly rated strike force of Dane Nicki Bille-Nielsen and Angel firing the goals Elche are sure to be sniffing around the automatic spots.

Celta Vigo are hoping to make it fifth time lucky as they aim to grab a La Liga place. After 3 disappointing finishes Celta lost out to Granada in last season’s playoffs and are currently on an eight game unbeaten run which has put them within 2 points of an automatic promotion spot.

Almeria came down last season alongside Hercules and Deportivo after finishing 14 points adrift of safety but former Cordoba coach Lucas Alcaraz has made the Andalusians a difficult side to beat especially at their Estadio de los Jeugos Mediterraneos home where they remain unbeaten. With Liga Adelante’s runaway top scorer Leonardo Ulloa alongside Swede Henok Goitom up front Almeria will expect to be in the running at the end of season.

In seventh, Cordoba have conceded the least amount of goals in the league, but it’s at the other end that could cost them dearly. Only three sides in the division have scored less. Only 13 goals have been scored in 11 home games with former Rayo midfielder Borja Garcia their top scorer. The next 3 games could well prove pivotal to Cordoba’s promotion challenge. Murcia were promoted from Segunda B last season and are enjoying another fine season; although a crack at the end of season playoffs may be just one step too far for Los Pimentoneros they would see a season of consolidation a great success.

Next up: The English Championship

Follow the excellent @tiertwofooty on Twitter. You can also keep up-to-date with all the latest news by following us @JustFootball

Always on the lookout for new talent here at Just Football, we sent our man in Qatar to check out the inaugural Al-Kass International Under-17 tournament. A warm welcome to Raphael Nawari, who reports on a competition full of promising youngsters:

In a small secluded part of the world, the new stars of tomorrow are taking part in a newly formed tournament, which in years to come will be considered as one of the better known youth tournaments, rivalling the Milk Cup and others where the likes of Wayne Rooney, Ronaldinho and Lionel Messi have graced us with their precocious talents.

The Al-Kass International U-17s tournament took place in January at Aspire Zone, Doha, which will host the World Cup in 2022. No expense has been spared here to help the teams transition into the professional game, from 5 star accommodation, private buses, and press conferences to live TV coverage.

The teams have come from far and wide, representing four different continents. From Europe the powerhouses of Barcelona, Juventus, Paris Saint-Germain, and Ajax. From Asia, Kashima Antlers of Japan and Al-Jazira UAE, from South America Vasco Da Gama of Brazil and finally, from Africa we have Al Ahly of Egypt. The hosts have two teams representing them, Aspire Qatar and Aspire International, which completes the line up.

Some of the players have been of outstanding quality, so for Just Football I have compiled a list of ten to look out for in the future, players who stood out and shone from the rest. For all we know, playing in front of these very fortunate small crowds are the stars of World Cup 2022. It may come as no surprise to you that the list is made up of mainly front men and creative players.

10) Lucas Da Silva Augusto (Midfielder, Vasco da Gama and Brazil)

He starts on the bench, but when this boy comes on, he lights up the park. A breath of fresh air as he has the ability to unlock play. With the ability to beat a man one on one he can distribute wisely using his wide peripheral vision and always has an eye for goal, cutting in from the flanks. With a drop of the shoulder he can change direction and with it change the play. A true asset to the team.

9) Lucas Del Campo Montoliu (Defender, Barcelona and Spain)

A dynamic left back who loves to attack. He can play out wide as well as cut in and attack more centrally. Good at pressuring the man on the ball and times tackles well. He has exceptional stamina and is a very modern day left back.

8 ) Sho Abe (Defender, Kashima Antlers and Japan)

Very good technically and has a very high completion rate on all passes. Creative minded and a fierce competitor. Very disciplined but when given a chance he will beat his man, either by trickery or playing an intelligent pass. His movement down the flanks is excellent and covers well when others are out of position.

7) Adrien Rabiot Provost (Defensive Midfielder, Paris-Saint Germain and France)

A big holding midfielder, good at breaking up opponents play but equally comfortable creating. Strong aerially and composed on the ball. He does all the fundamentals well and is a natural competitor, chooses his moments well and is positionally astute for his age.

Paris Saint-Germain - Al-Kass International Under-17 winners

6) Djavan Lorenzo Anderson (Midfielder, Ajax and Holland)

Can be described as a more mobile version of Xabi Alonso, he spreads the ball really well with good accurate short and long range distribution. He gets up and down the pitch quite effortlessly  and is the leader of the pack, instructing those around him all the time with a good sense of where the play is heading.

5) Danilo Barbosa Da Silva (Playmaker, classic number 10, Vasco Da Gama and Brazil)

He links up the play well and can collect from deep then open the play up with a single penetrative pass. He likes receiving the ball in the middle of the park so that the play is usually in front of him, with good balance and technical ability mixed with the vision to spot a killer pass, we might be seeing him in Europe not too far from now.

4) Mattiello Federico (Attacking midfielder, Juventus and Italy)

Natural finisher with a knack for being at the right place at the right time. Federico plays in the pockets of spaces between midfield and defence. Has the ability to finish with both feet and a decent in the air. His movement and timing are what make him so exceptional at this age group and he hit four goals in Juventus’ run to the final.

3) Sandro Ramirez Castillo (Forward, Barcelona and Spain)

Spanish U-17s international. Front man with the ability to play out wide or down the middle. Technique comes natural to the boys of La Masia and it’s no different here. Skilful and knows how to generate space. What sets him apart is his decision making ability, – he made the right decisions 90% of the time here and was able to execute. With these attributes, and further development in the coming years, Sandro is definitely one for the future.

2) Hervin Ongenda (Forward, Paris Saint-Germain)

Already an international for France U17s. Strong, powerful, quick and those are just his natural attributes. With regards to quality, he is extremely sound technically, useful with either foot and recognises where he needs to be to facilitate space for himself and teammates. Always a willing runner, he works the flanks and links up well from deeper positions as well as more advanced positions. His finishing is emphatic and has a deft touch.

1) Alain Richard Ebwelle (Forward, Barcelona and Spain)

Electric, a player you want on the ball every time. Ebwelle is direct and exciting to watch. His control, touch, balance, skill, pace and technique all seem extremely natural. Very impressive close control and has immense acceleration to leave defenders trailing. Plays out wide or through the middle and was the best player on display in Qatar.

Keep an eye out for these guys in future, they may well be breaking into first teams around Europe and the world before you know it.

(Photo credit (and for more info) see: Al-Kass official site)

My latest African football column for FourFourTwo looks at Tunisia and whether they are the team to beat at this year’s AFCON:

For a team that could just as easily be sitting at home watching on TV, they made a pretty good start.

Tunisia were seconds away from going the way of Egypt, Cameroon and Nigeria in this competition last October. With Malawi 2-1 up against Chad going into stoppage time, the South East African nation were about to cause another Africa Cup of Nations upset by sneaking to the finals alongside Botswana.

Tunisians everywhere could only watch events in N’Djamena and pray. Then, at the last moment, those prayers were answered. In the 94th minute, Karl Marx Barthelemy glanced home an equaliser for Chad to break Malawi hearts and send Tunisia to their tenth straight Cup of Nations finals.

Head over to FourFourTwo to read the full piece.

Just Football’s Tales from Tier Two series continues now with a look at the promotion chances of Deportivo La Coruña in Spain’s Segunda Division:

Deportivo La Coruna

Deportivo have a three point lead on Valladolid and Hercules going into week 22 as the blanquiazules aim to bounce back to La Liga at the first time of asking. After an inconsistent opening 14 fixtures Depor have won 6 and drew 1 of their last 7 fixtures (including 5 straight wins) up to a 1-0 win over a lowly Villarreal B side on Saturday.

Historically Deportivo are one of the strongest teams in Spain. The club has 1 league title to its name (1999/2000) and, at the zenith of a turbulent period in the club’s history, Deportivo reached the semi final of the Champions League as recently as 2004 knocking out Juventus & AC Milan before bowing out to Porto. They also competed in the UEFA Cup in the 2008/09 season. Until relegation last season the lowest Deportivo had finished in La Liga since 1992 was a 13th placed finish in 2006/07 and in that period had only finished outside the top 10 on 2 occasions.

Jose Luis Oltra is the man charged with bringing top tier football back to the Riazor. Oltra made his managerial name in a three year tenure at Tenerife before a spell at Almeria, and joined Deportivo in the summer. Following relegation Adrian left the club to join Atletico Madrid and Getafe picked up Alberto Lupo and Juan Rodriguez as Oltra tried to find the right balance to mount a promotion push.

Oltra brought in left back Ayoze from Mallorca but he has failed to impress the vociferous Riazor public and rumours are abound of the club trying to recruit former Villarreal fullback Joan Capdevila from his unsuccessful spell at Portuguese giants Benfica. Depor also raided Portugal’s top league to bring in Diogo Salamao on loan from Sporting Lisbon and Bruno Gama from Rio Ave. Oltra is also believed to be interested in strengthening his options up front in the transfer window with his scouts currently keeping an eye on Portugal. Real Betis forward Jorge Molina is also thought to be on his radar.

Tunisian forward Lassad Nouioui has notched 7 league goals whilst Mexican Jose Andres Guardado, a big money signing from Atlas in 2008 has top scored with 8 so far from midfield. The home form has been key in the 1st half of the season, conceding less than a goal a game and winning 9 of the 11 games played at the Riazor. An experienced back line with an average age of 28, marshalled by goalkeeper Aranzubia, has proved difficult to breach and if Deportivo can recruit a proven striker to convert the chances then the Riazor will be witnessing La Liga football again very soon.

Position: 1st

Points clear of chasing pack: 3

Will they last the pace or tire in the race? Last the pace – the strongest team in the league but will need to revamp and add some youth to the ageing squad in the summer.

Predicted Final Position: 1st

Key Man: Jose Andres Guardado – Capped 77 times by Mexico the midfielder could add to his 2 player of the year awards already won in Coruna.

Follow the excellent @tiertwofooty on Twitter. You can also keep up-to-date with all the latest news by following us @JustFootball

January 25th 2011. One year ago today, the revolution began. Making his debut for Just Football, Adam Moustafa reports on the changes to Egyptian football in the year since:

Prior to the Egyptian revolution, football was one of the main sources of bliss for Egyptians. The past few years were deemed the golden age of Egyptian football with the national team winning the last three African Cups of Nations while also putting in outstanding performances against the likes of Brazil and Italy. Whenever kickoff time neared, Egyptians around the world would huddle around televisions sets with their flags in hand or painted on their faces. It was always a festive mood after victories. Egyptians would quickly flood the streets singing and dancing to the sounds of tablas (African drums) and non-stop car honks throughout the night.

A taste of these celebrations, after beating North African rivals Algeria 4-0 in 2010 (excuse the Arabic cursing).

Football was always integrated with politics in Egypt. After each of Egypt’s triumphs in the Africa Cup of Nations, Hosni Mubarak would congratulate each player and personally place medallions around their necks. Other politicians (including Mubarak’s sons) would also tie themselves with the sport by speaking through media outlets or occasionally showing up to the Cairo international stadium to watch a match. These were just a few of cheap tactics used by the previous regime to gain the blind support of some Egyptians.

The patronage that stemmed in the past decade over Egyptian football was immense, and dangerous. When Egypt and Algeria were going head-to-head to qualify for South Africa 2010, Mubarak’s media and even some footballers were a focal point in almost instigating a war between the two nations. Amr Zaki rejected a move to Portsmouth because of this, stating “no way could I play for Portsmouth with an Algerian in their ranks” referring to the presence of Nader Belhadj.

The revolts against Mubarak began to build serious momentum on January 25th. The Egyptian Premier League was then suspended, followed by the cancellation of the Egyptian Cup and any scheduled international friendlies. Oddly enough one of the cancelled friendlies was against the United States, who at the time coached by recently appointed Egypt head coach Bob Bradley.

Ahly and Zamalek ultras were constantly organising protests and working together once the revolution begun. Enemies in the football stadium became allies in Tahrir Square. These fans were extremely disappointed that most of the players from the clubs they supported never joined them in the uprisings against Mubarak. In fact, plenty iconic names in Egyptian football were quick to defend the under-fire president including Egypt’s head coach Hassan Shehata.

This led Ahly fans to direct a banner to their own club which read: “Wherever you went, we went. When we revolted, we couldn’t find you.”

One of the first professional matches after the “completion of the Egyptian revolution” was Zamalek against Tunisian Club Africain in the African Champions League. Hundreds of angry fans invaded the pitch after the linesman flagged a last minute equalizing goal scored by Zamalek as offside. Tunisian players and the referee were attacked and eventually cancelled the remaining minutes of the game.

Plenty of similar incidents occurred and rumors quickly spread that the EFA (Egyptian Football Association) were considering cancelling the 2010/2011 season due to security concerns. While some claim that the trouble was the result of people abusing their new-found freedom, others believed that the supporters of the previous regime were igniting the havoc to diminish the revolution’s image. Nevertheless Egyptian football gained a new sense of purification after the revolution.

The following clip is of Ahly fans showing their unconditional love towards their club with a hint of the revolution in the stadium (note the Algerian, Libyan and even Japanese flags). At the end of the video the commentator is proud to say, “This is Egypt.”

Zamalek fans have also continued to show their undying support for their club even with having Hassan Shehata as their new head coach, who later claimed to have supported the revolution. Most fans didn’t believe those claims but they’ve managed to put aside his political views. This year Zamalek fans celebrated their club’s centurion in a match against Atletico Madrid.

The entire Atletico Madrid staff were stunned by the unique celebrations of the Zamalek fans and were quick to record the scenes on their camera phones. Even though they were trailing 4-1, the celebrations were ongoing. Gregorio Manzano, head coach of Atletico at the time, said that he “had never seen anything like it in his life.”

Around the beginning of December 2011, prior to the countries’ first democratic elections, further political unrest broke out in Egypt between protestors and the military. The league was on break at the time, but regardless of the problems in the country, the Egyptian Premier league resumed as scheduled. A young Egyptian was killed in Tahrir Square that month, an Ahly ultras member, 19-year-old Mohamed Mostafa. A truly touching sight came watching Ahly fans honour Mohamed with banners of him in the stadium, during a league match against Misr El Makasa. Even Portuguese boss, Manuel Jose wore a t-shirt in remembrance of Mohamed throughout the match.

There have been a few other instances in the past year where security in the Egyptian top tier has been exposed. On New Year’s Eve, Ghazl El Mahalla hosted Al Ahly, but the match was called off early in the 2nd half. Mahalla, who already look bound for relegation, surprisingly had a 2-goal advantage against the Egyptian champs, Ahly pulled one back just before halftime.  A few minutes into the 2nd half, a controversial own-goal scored by a Mahalla defender deceived the home fans. Somehow the ball slivered under the mesh and made it look like it never hit the back of the net.

Credit to the Egyptian referee who correctly awarded the equalizer, but due to the Mahalla players’ protest, the fans believed they were being robbed. Mahalla fans ended up storming the pitch and the referee had no other choice but to end the match. Again there were murmurs that the Egyptian League may be cancelled shortly after, but despite all the havoc, the show goes on.

The Egyptian national team is scheduled to play a friendly against North African rivals Tunisia in a friendly on February 10th in Cairo. North African derbies are usually extremely intense but this one is strictly to commemorate the anniversaries of their respected revolutions. Hence, a much more festive atmosphere is expected.

Football in Egypt will slowly but surely regain its stability and will continue to flourish, despite being yellow-carded by the revolution.

Adam Moustafa is an Egyptian football writer and columnist for Just Football. He can be found on Twitter @egyFt

(photo credit: thecoldwhisper under Flickr Creative Commons licence)

We have seen 15 goals in 8 opening games of the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations, with some fascinating fixtures and a few hints as to how the tournament might unfold. Only one game was separated by more than one goal, co-hosts Gabon beating Niger 2-0, while there have been no heavy defeats for any of the less-fancied teams, with the likes of Sudan and Botswana, and even Niger to an extent, more than holding their own against continental powerhouses like Cote d’Ivoire and Ghana.

Having seen all eight opening games, here is my Matchday 1 best XI of the tournament for Just Football. I’ve tried to mix it up a bit for variation, but overall I think this is a fair representation of the best eleven players from the opening set of games. Comfortably the worst performer, by the way, was Bakary Kone of Burkina Faso, who cost his team with a madcap display of frankly ridiculous defending. But anyway, the best of the best so far:

GK: Soumbeyla DIAKITE (Mali): Guinea managed 6 shots on target in this game and probably deserved something from the match, but Diakite held firm and made a number of fine saves. Decision-making impressive too.

RDEF: Edmond MOUELE (Gabon): Bombed down Gabon’s right hand side on the overlap and showed energy and penetration.

CDEF: Cedric KANTE (Mali): Guinea could find no way through Kante, whose influence on the team and solid tackling stood out.

CDEF: Karim HAGGUI (Tunisia): Captain who led by example in the face of what was a Moroccan attacking onslaught at times. Particularly good at reading the game and nipping in to intercept possession in Tunisia’s 2-1 win.

LDEF: Phenyo MONGALA (Botswana): Not strictly a left back but in here regardless after a very competent game down Botswana’s left hand side. Pacy and skilful, the Zebras main attacking outlet during a valiant 1-0 defeat.

CMID: Andre BIYOGO-POKO (Gabon): Picked him out in our players to watch at this AFCON earlier and he was instrumental to Gabon’s game, winning possession in the build-up to the opening goal and completing 80% of his 56 passes. Also won every tackle he went for. His partner in midfield Levy Madinda caught the eye too.

CMID: Houssine KHARJA (Morocco): Spoke of how disappointed he was to lose after this game with a crestfallen look on his face and certainly did not deserve be on the losing side here on a personal level after a very good game. Scored one and kept Morocco ticking in midfield completing 64 0f 70 passes.

CMID: JUVENAL (Equatorial Guinea): Enterprising in the co-hosts’ midfield and his use of the ball was significant in their 1-0 win over Libya.

RWIN: Christopher KATONGO (Zambia): The Chipolopolo stunned Senegal in their opening game and Katongo was fundamental to that victory with his energy, running in behind defence and creativity.

LWIN: Rainford KALABA (Zambia): Scored one and was a real handful in Zambia’s 2-1 win over Senegal. The Teranga Lions couldn’t handle his electric speed and dribbling, particularly in the first half.

ATT: Pierre-Emerick AUBAMEYANG (Gabon): Already a national hero (you can buy Aubameyang-emblazoned underwear in markets around Libreville), he only cemented his place in the nation’s hearts hearts here with a dynamic display and a fine opening goal.

Agree? Disagree? Feel free to have your say below or find us on Twitter to debate.

“I think it is a responsibility for every proper club in Europe to go to the Africa Cup of Nations to see what the market brings and what hidden talents are running around in Africa,” Hoffenheim scout Lutz Pfannenstiel told the BBC on the eve of the African Cup of Nations 2012. Here are a few players we’ve picked out on Just Football (some hidden, some less so) as potential stars of this tournament and beyond:

Bruno ECUELE-MANGA – (FC Lorient / Gabon)

The 23-year-old Gabonese centre back started his career in Libreville at local outfit FC 105 Libreville and was promptly spotted and signed as a fresh-faced 18-year-old by Bordeaux, who have good contacts in the area. The towering centre back failed to make the grade at Bordeaux but successful spells at Angers and now Lorient have raised eyebrows.

Lille, Marseille, PSG and Everton were all interested last summer and Ecuele-Manga went as far as praising the Premier League club, admitting he “adores the passion at Goodison Park.” Excellent in the air and nifty on the ground, where he averages 38 passes per game with a pass completion rate of 85%, Ecuele-Manga’s power and presence at the back stand him out as a very promising talent.

Papiss Demba CISSE – (Newcastle United / Senegal)

Newcastle United’s scouting system has earned praise in recent months and rightly so, with the Magpies making a number of shrewd signings for bargain basement prices (Cabaye, anybody?). And if the last two years are anything to go by then Newcastle have done it again with the signing of Papiss Demba Cisse from Freiburg. It had been abundantly clear for some time that Cisse was, with respect, way above Freiburg’s level.

Calm, clinical and a deadly finisher, a predatory poacher that can also create, Cisse hit 22 league goals in the Bundesliga last season and had personally contributed to a staggering 43% of Freiburg’s goals so far this campaign. Scorer of 4 goals in qualifying for AFCON 2012, Cisse has kept Premier League second top goalscorer and professional syrup drinker Demba Ba out of the national team with his dangerous penalty area presence and partnership with Mamadou Niang. As Senegal lead the charge for glory all eyes will be on Newcastle’s new £10 million man.

Oussama DARRAGI – (Esperance / Tunisia)

Nicknamed Picasso due to his graceful style and paintbrush-stroke passing, Darragi was voted the best player in Africa in 2011 by CAF after starring for an Esperance side that went all the way and won the CAF African Champions League. A number 10 in the true sense, Darragi brings poise and craft to Tunisia’s midfield. Former Esperance coach Nabil Maaloul used to rave about Darragi, describing him as “the engine in midfield” and the 24-year-old has attracted interest from Greek giants Olympiakos lately.

Andre BIYOGO-POKO – (Bordeaux / Gabon)

In the absence of the Nigerias, Cameroons and Egypts of this world, one of the most fascinating elements of this African Cup of Nations more than any in recent years will be the opportunity to monitor new, young players and see how they adapt on the world stage. Andre Biyogo-Poko is certainly one I’ll be looking out for. The 18-year-old was recommended to Bordeaux by Gabon coach Gernot Rohr after showing promise during a friendly against the French club last season, scoring the winner.

He then became a national hero at the recent Under-23 African Championships, scoring the goal that secured Gabon’s place at this year’s London Olympics. “He can play across the midfield, has great energy and presses well, is good on the ball, pushes forward and can both create and score goals,” Rohr has commented. Yet to appear for club but this is high praise indeed. Let’s see how he does.

Aymen ABDENNOUR – (Toulouse / Tunisia)

A left-footed centre back who can also play left back, Aymen Abdennour has been one of the relevations of the season so far in Ligue 1, adapting to French football with ease. Another tough tackling, powerful defender, the Tunisian international loves the physical side of football and can often be seen throwing himself into challenges wholeheartedly – and with impeccable timing. His general positioning could improve but at just 22 he looks a real prospect for the future. Arsenal have sent scouts to watch him on at least three occasions this season and he will be key to Tunisia’s defence in Gabon/Equatorial Guinea.

Kwadwo ASAMOAH (Udinese / Ghana)

An all-action midfielder who breaks up the play and drives the team forward with dynamism and boundless energy, Kwadwo Asamoah’s influence both for club side Udinese in Serie A and at international level continues to grow and grow. Retains possession well in midfield and his appreciation of the game tactically shows maturity beyond his 23 years. Now that Kevin Prince Boateng has turned his back on the Black Stars Asamoah’s importance to Ghana only increases.

Alain TRAORE - (Auxerre / Burkina Faso)

The Burkina Faso international is in the top 10 players in France’s Ligue 1 for both shots per game and key passes per game this season and has been sublime for Auxerre on occasions. A key driving force in midfield, the 23-year-old can play through the middle of midfield, down the left or in an attacking position between the lines as a roving playmaker. Possesses a wicked shot from long range too. With 7 goals and 2 assists in 17 games so far this season Traore, who once had a trial at Manchester United, will be fundamental to The Stallions‘ gameplan. Has spoken of a desire to move to a big European club in the future, though for that to happen he needs to add consistency to his game.

Others to watch out for: Isaac Chansa (Zambia), Modibo Maiga (Mali), Seydou Doumbia (Cote d’Ivoire), Jonathan Pitroipa (Burkina Faso), Evans Kangwa (Zambia), Emmanuel Mayuka (Zambia).

Time to conclude Just Football’s team-by-team African Cup of Nations 2012 group previews now with a look at Group D – Botswana, Ghana, Guinea and Mali. Follow us on Twitter or subscribe to Just Football to get all the latest news from Just Football at the African Cup of Nations and beyond.

GROUP D

Botswana – Ghana – Guinea – Mali

BOTSWANA

Before you read the rest of this preview, listen to this. That is what it means to the people of Botswana to be at an African Cup of Nations for the first time. Botswana stomped their way to their maiden AFCON in qualifying, finishing top of a group that included Tunisia, Togo and Malawi with consummate ease. The Zebras have tip-toed around Africa’s international wilderness aimlessly for decades but suddenly burst into life in 2010/11 and were the first team in Africa to qualify for the finals.

Botswana’s triumph has sent the nation football crazy. Inspired by neighbours South Africa at the World Cup, Friday in Botswana is ‘Football Friday’ in the build-up to the competition, a colourful, visual celebration of an historic achievement. The team’s kit supplier, All-Kasi, has struggled to cope with demand for replica shirts and football at all levels has seen a huge boost in popularity, with youth and womens football matches also receiving much larger support.

Botswana’s rise from obscurity to a place in the spotlight and an opening day game against continental giants Ghana is the stuff of fairytale. One of seventeen emerging nations leading the way in a renaissance of African economic development, the nation’s fortunes off the pitch echo the good things happening off it. This is the reward for a disciplined group of players and a charismatic coach.

Stanley Tshosane has overseen Botswana’s transformation and will aim to go even further at AFCON2012. A former army officer and strict disciplinarian, one of his key pieces of pre-tournament advice to the players was simple: no sex please, we’re Batswana. “I don’t expect any of my players to engage in sex during the tournament,” Tshosane has ordered and he is not one to be ignored. On the field he has moulded a group of players who all play either in their domestic league or in South Africa, and turned them into an impressive unit.

Worryingly, pre-tournament plans were disrupted by a player strike over money and injury to important players. Joel Mogorosi (Township Rollers) will miss the tournament and defender Mompathi Thuma (Botswana Defence Force XI) also has injury worries while star man and national hero Dipsy Selolwane (SuperSport United) is suspended for the opening game. The omission of pacy winger Sekhana Koko also caused controversy. In attack Jerome Ramatlhwane is key – he hit 5 of Botswana’s 7 goals in qualifying.

GHANA

In the absence of their conquerors (Egypt) and enemies (Nigeria), Ghana are the glamour team of this 2012 African Cup of Nations in the eyes of Europe and the Western media in general (alongside Ivory Coast). The Black Stars’ journey at World Cup 2010 won the hearts and minds of a sympathetic public, while on the pitch Ghana’s swagger, confidence and youthful exuberance made them a team to remember. The dark moments of a now infamous defeat to Uruguay were softened by an overriding feeling: they’ll be okay. They’ll be back.

AFCON2012 represents Ghana’s chance to show they do possess the resilience and style to bounce back in emphatic fashion. Overwhelming favourites along with Côte d’Ivoire, the two narratives are nevertheless completely different. Côte d’Ivoire’s story is all about the last chance, rescuing the dying embers of a golden era never realised. Right now Ghana don’t care much about the past. They’ve got the future.

It will be fascinating to see how the Black Stars cope with the added pressure of being favourites. They’ve dealt with it before of course, but this is a new generation. The baton has passed to the youngsters of 2010; the fresh-faced Under-20 World Cup winning kids who brought energy and fresh impetus to the senior team in 2010 are now beginning to form their own nucleus. The Black Satellites are becoming the Black Stars.

Given the talents at Goran Stevanovic’s disposal, we can expect a lot from Ghana. The influence of Andre Ayew (Olympique Marseille), Samuel Inkoom (Dnipro Dnipropetrovsk), Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu (Udinese) and co is growing, while the talents of Sulley Muntari (Internazionale), Asamoah Gyan (Al-Ain) and John Mensah (Lyon) remain. Meanwhile Kwadwo Asamoah develops into an excellent player at Udinese and should be one of the most exciting players to watch here.

Ghana’s mission statement here is simple: win the tournament. This team is a far more cohesive and confident unit than the one that reached the 2010 final, and with Egypt not around this time the Black Stars could well make it five stars on the shirt.

(Follow the links for Group A, Group B and Group C and full AFCON2012 squads)

GUINEA

Guinea proved themselves a team of real character and resolve when, last October, they turned a desperate situation against Nigeria in Abuja into a ticket to this their 10th African Cup of Nations. 2-1 down with minutes remaining and their opponents set to advance, Ibrahima Traore pulled a rabbit out of a hat to stun the hosts and send the Syli National through.

Guinea’s last appearance at an AFCON finals ended when they were battered 5-0 by Côte d’Ivoire in Ghana 2008 but they return here with another intriguing squad that could surprise. There are goals in the team – 4-1 thrashings of Ethiopia and Madagascar proved that – and coach Michel Dussuyer does have options going forward. The ever-enigmatic Pascal Feindouno has 8 tournament goals, the most of any player at these finals (10 behind all-time top scorer Samuel Eto’o; perhaps unrealistic but you never know with Pascal…) while Bastia’s Sadio Diallo courted the attention of several French clubs recently before agreeing to join Rennes. Goalkeeper Naby Yattara (Arles-Avignon) also impressed in qualifying.

Guinea have a hint of unpredictability about them as well as an attack-minded, cavalier spirit, a combination that makes for a fun team to watch. I don’t expect them to go as far as some have predicted but their opening game in Franceville against Mali could be key in deciding this group.

MALI

Two years ago Mali sent a team to Angola with genuine ambitions of going all the way. The squad was a promising mix of strength in depth alongside world stars like Mahamadou Diarra, Seydou Keita and Fredi Kanoute, players with the technical ability and skill to impose themselves at the vital moment and win games. Despite the big build-up however it all went wrong for Les Aigles - an incredible 4-4 comeback from 4-0 down against Angola aside their impact on the tournament was negligible and the Eagles went home with wings clipped.

The challenge for Mali now is to erase that painful memory with a better showing at this their 7th Cup of Nations appearance. “2010 will forever be a failure,” Mahamane Traore (Metz), one of the younger members of Mali’s 2010 squad has said. “This time we must go as far as possible.”

Despite the nation’s expectations though Mali can feel lucky to be here at all. They made a mess of what looked a straightforward qualification group, losing to Cape Verde and Zimbabwe, and only advanced to the finals by way of a marginally better head-to-head record than lowly Cape Verde (goal difference).

With several high profile players no longer available to French coach Alain Giresse (Momo Sissoko, Diarra, Kanoute) for various reasons, this is a new Mali team. Barcelona’s Seydou Keita is back after returning from international wilderness for a final hurrah, but otherwise this is a younger team that could struggle to make the impact desired by a passionate public. In attack Modibo Maiga (Sochaux) will be looking to impress scouts. He’s had a difficult time in France this season off the pitch and is desperate to leave, but remains a powerful, bustling striker good in the air and on the ground, and could make a difference. Cheikh Diabate (Bordeaux) has proved reasonably prolific at international level and is another aerial threat for Giresse to consider.

In terms of key players, Giresse considers Keita and Cedric Kante (Panathinaikos) the main men. “Seydou is the technical leader, Cedric our moral leader” he has said and both will need to use all their experience to guide a team some (but not myself) see as dark horses.

Just Football Prediction: I’m backing an upset in this group. Ghana to progress along with the team ranked 94 in the world – Botswana, whose unity and wide-eyed enthusiasm see them spring a surprise.

Who do you think will win the 2012 African Cup of Nations? Let us know below or have your say in our poll –>

Tales from Tier Two is a series on Just Football in partnership with @tiertwofooty, in which we assess the promotion chances of the clubs in tier two of Europe’s major leagues at the midway point of 2011/12. First we assessed France’s Ligue 2 and Germany’s Bundesliga II. Then Italy’s Serie B league leaders Torino. Now for 2nd place in Serie B and the contenders:

Sassuolo

U.S. Sassuolo Calcio moved into 2nd place after last weekend’s 1-0 win at lowly Nocerina coupled with Hellas Verona going down 3-2 at Pescara. Just 1 defeat since the 24th September has seen the Emilia-Romagna based club slowly climb the table and firmly announce themselves as a serious contender for promotion.

Founded in 1922, Sassuolo had up until 2008 played all their football in the Italian lower leagues when then manager Massimiliano Allegri masterminded promotion to Serie B for the first time before leaving to coach Cagliari. The Green & Blacks (colours that originated from English club Lancaster Rovers who donated Sassuolo’s first ever kit) achieved highly respectable finishes of 7th and 4th in their opening 2 seasons before ending last season in a disappointing 15th place.

Ground grading means Sassuolo cannot play their home matches in the town’s Stadio Enzo Ricci and have to travel the 12 miles North East to Modena’s Stadio Alberto Braglia, making manager Fulvio Pea’s achievements even more remarkable. Pea, a 44 year old former assistant coach at CSKA Sofia, Napoli & Ancona, joined Sassuolo in the summer following 2 years as coach of the Inter Milan Primavera, and quickly set to work on improving the small squad at his disposal.

Pea has used the loan market to full effect, bringing in Karim Laribi from Palermo along with Genoa duo Issac Cofie and Richmond Boakye, the latter forming an exciting partnership with Gianluca Sansone resulting in 18 goals so far. Sansone was recruited from Siena in the summer. Also joining in the summer and contributing at the back are Emanuele Terranova and Lorenzo Laverone who arrived from Palermo and Reggina respectively. In early January Sassuolo splashed out a record fee to bring in Simone Missiroli from promotion rivals Reggina. The attacking midfielder hit 7 goals from 20 games in the 1st half of the season for Reginna & Pea would be more than happy with a similar return for Sassuolo.

Sassuolo look to have a well balanced team & the addition of Missiroli could prove to be a real shot in the arm, however their inability to beat the teams at the top could have a damaging effect at the end of May. At the halfway point of Serie B Sassuolo have yet to beat anyone else in the top 6. That will need addressing in time for the visit of Hellas Verona at the end of January.

Position: 2nd

Points clear of chasing pack: 1

Last the pace or tire in the race? A place in the playoffs beckons.

Predicted Final Position: 5th

Key Man: Gianluca Sansone, 12 goals from 18 games including 6 in the last 4 games. Sassuolo need Sansone to keep firing the goals.

The Contenders

Teams placed 3-6 will meet in the playoffs to determine who gets the coveted place in next season’s Serie A. Currently in those positions are Pescara, Hellas Verona, Padova & Reggina with a host of clubs battling to stake a claim, none more high profile than Sampdoria who despite drawing half of their 22 games so far are only 3 points from Reggina.

Padova and Reggina finished in the play off positions last season (as did Varese who are nestled in the chasing pack). Padova reached the final before losing to Novara and hope to go one step further this season, the loan signing of proven Serie B goal scorer Daniele Cacia from Leece a clear indication of their ambitions to return to the top level of Italian football. Reggina have most to fear from the chasing pack, the Amaranto are in the midst of a dour run of form and have also lost key performer Simone Missiroli to rivals Sassuolo.

Pescara’s free flowing attacking brand of football under Zdenek Zeman seems to be paying dividends, a potent 27 goal strikeforce of Juventus loanee Ciro Immobile and former Grosseto man Marco Sansovini for the league’s leading scorers makes them many people’s favourites for promotion.

A fine run of form from Hellas Verona of 8 wins & 2 draws saw the Gialloblu climb into 2nd spot but a 1-3 reverse at Pescara last time out means Hellas sit in a very respectable 4th place following promotion from the Lega Pro last season after a fiery playoff win over Salernitana. It has been 10 years since Hellas last graced Serie A but Andrea Mandorlini has his 2nd promotion in 2 seasons firmly in his sights.

Like Sampdoria, Bari have been hugely inconsistent since their relegation from Serie A. If they can find the formula to rectify a record of only 2 wins in 10 matches at their San Nicola home then the Galletti won’t be far away come May.

Another team promoted from Lega Pro last season were Juve Stabia who also started the season with point’s handicap for financial reasons. Spurred on by the deductions they have enjoyed a fine season so far after losing 4 of their 5 opening games, finally securing their first maximum points in a thrilling 3-2 win over Pescara. In striker Marco Sau , borrowed from Cagliari, they have an in form goal scorer. Sau has hit 12 goals in 16 games this season and clearly caught the eye of manager Piero Braglia last season when he hit 20 in 30 games on loan at Lega Pro rivals Foggia.

Up next: Spain’s Segunda Division. Follow the excellent @tiertwofooty on Twitter. You can also keep up-to-date with all the latest news by following us @JustFootball

We’ve looked at Demba Ba and friends in Group A and contemplated Côte d’Ivoire in Group B. Just Football’s team-by-team African Cup of Nations 2012 group previews continues now with a look at Group C. Follow us on Twitter or subscribe to Just Football to get all the latest news from Just Football at the African Cup of Nations and beyond.

GROUP C

Gabon – Morocco – Niger – Tunisia

GABON

There is a feel-good factor running through Gabon and its football right now. Hosting the African Cup of Nations for the first time has brought pleasure to a nation, and this optimism and enthusiasm for the game only swelled further when Les Panthères recorded their first ever continental title back in December. Despite being outsiders, Gabon managed to see off all comers including the likes of Egypt, Nigeria and hosts Morocco in the final to win the 2011 CAF Under-23 Championships with a vibrant and resilient young side, whose talents we look forward to seeing at the London Olympics later this year.

This unexpected triumph gave Gabonese supporters reason to dream, “a moment of intense joy” as U-23 coach Claude Albert Mbourounot summed up. Hopes now are that the current group can go beyond their previous best, a quarter final place in 1996 attained primarily due to the absence of Nigeria, whose withdrawal from the tournament cleared a space in Gabon’s group. German coach Gernot Rohr has done his best to temper expectations however, reiterating that merely qualifying from the group is the target.

With fervent crowds expected to cheer the Panthers on in Libreville and Franceville a last eight place is definitely a possibility. Historically, home advantage has proven a huge boon at recent Cup of Nations – Angola aside a host has made the semis on every occasion since 1996.

Not only that but Gabon do have some interesting, if unpredictable players. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has been a thorn in the side of Ligue 1 defences for Saint-Etienne this season, particularly recently, operating either from the wing or latterly as a striker. Eric Mouloungui (Nice) is another threat, a wiry striker who ranges from the anonymous to the sublime in the South of France. His skill, dribbling and ability to beat a man could be key to Gabon unlocking defences and scoring – something they will need to improve on if they are to go deep here. At the back Bruno Ecuele Manga (Lorient) is one of the finest centre backs in France today – a rock they can rely on and Didier Ovono (Le Mans) who spoke to Just Football not long ago, can perform heroics in goal when inclined (and is on the lookout for a summer move by the way, so will want to impress watching scouts). Also look for U-23 star Andre Biyogo Poko (Bordeaux).

A serious lack of competitive football in recent years makes it hard to know how this team will adapt, but with the crowd behind them here a last eight place is certainly a realistic goal.

MOROCCO

Morocco have a proud tradition in African football – the second African nation to reach a World Cup finals and first to register a World Cup point, against Bulgaria in 1970. The North Africans also boast one of the best Cup of Nations records with 13 previous finals appearances. That they have only ever won the tournament once therefore appears a curious anomaly given their status in Africa both from a football and economic perspective. Ghana by comparison has won the tournament three more times with a population of roughly 10 million less.

In Gabon the Atlas Lions will look to rectify that record and put to bed painful memories of their last two AFCONs. Morocco were grave disappointments in 2008 and failed to even qualify in 2010. However an exciting fresh crop of young, gifted players lends to the growing belief that, in 2012, Morocco can reclaim their position as one of Africa’s most fearsome teams.

Given the talent in the squad I do feel Morocco could go very far. Mehdi Benatia (Udinese), Houssine Kharja (Fiorentina) and Arsenal’s Marouane Chamakh form the spine of the team and around them mercurial talents like Younes Belhanda (Montpellier), Youssef El-Arabi (Al-Hilal), Mehdi Carcela (Anzhi Makhachkala) and the temperamental Adel Taarabt (QPR) sprinkle the stardust. Mbark Boussoufa (Anzhi Makhachkala) is another who pulls the strings.

Under the guidance of Belgian coach Eric Gerets the Atlas Lions have genuine reason for optimism. Gerets has found success at virtually every club he has coached and is optimistic about the potential of the team he has formed. “Our target is to win the title and dedicate it to the Moroccan people,” Gerets commented. “This generation is capable of doing so.” Defensive stability is the foundation for Morocco. They conceded just two goals in qualifying. If they can win Group C and avoid Ghana in the next round, there’s a real chance Morocco could go all the way.

NIGER

In qualifying above the mighty Egypt and a South Africa side riding the crest of a morale-boosting World Cup wave, Niger have already made history. That achievement alone has to be considered one of the finest in Africa Cup of Nations history, and certainly one of the most shocking. In a sense therefore it’s cigars out, admire the view time for the Menas. It don’t get much better than this.

But Niger have fallen into the old African trap since qualifying – cocking a sneering eye at the native coach in charge and nervously concluding a European could do better. French technician Rolland Courbis has consequently been brought in in an ‘advisory’ capacity alongside Harouna Doula, and will assist former Niger international in Gabon. How the two work together remains to be seen.

Doula has welcomed the extra help but he’d be entitled to feel aggrieved at the desperate lack of faith in him shown by Niger’s FA. He worked wonders in getting Niger this far, a motivator and canny tactician, and was rewarded when CAF named him the 2011 African coach of the year. Courbis’ appointment is just another example of a big problem in African football – mistrust of its own borne of a thinly-veiled inferiority complex.

The main string to Niger’s bow in qualifying was their flawless, 100% home record. The Mena lost all three away games however, and given they are on neutral ground and effectively in an away game against Gabon, it is doubtful they will make it too far here. Doula has called on his side to ‘remain humble’ and not humiliate themselves. Moussa Maazou (Zulte Waregem), a figure of ridicule in France after a terrible (and controversial) spell at Bordeaux, is their main player. He does have ability when inclined. Idrissa Laouali, a graceful midfielder and captain nicknamed ‘Pele’ is another to watch.

(For Group A head here and for Group B head here)

TUNISIA

Minnow to end all minnows, Chad have never qualified for the African Cup of Nations. Despite this, no matter what Tunisia achieve in this competition the north Africans owe their central African brothers a huge debt. It was Chad’s 94th minute equaliser in N’Djamena that deprived a desperately unlucky Malawi and allowed Tunisia to sneak into their 10th straight Cup of Nations.

Tunisia were the first team to put Africa on the map on a world stage, when winning Africa’s first game at a World Cup finals in Argentina in 1978. In terms of continental success 2004 is as good as it’s got for Les Aigles de Carthage, a solitary tournament victory achieved on home soil.

Tunisia have the makings of a good side under the guidance of former international Sami Trabelsi. The team is built on a tight-knit nucleus of players from both Esperance – 2011 African Champions League winners – and the Tunisia team that won the 2011 African Nations Championships, a tournament for domestic-based African players. Youssef Msakni, Khaled Korbi and Oussama Darragi (aka ‘Picasso’) were central to both teams and will all feature in Gabon. Darragi in particular is one that excites, an enterprising, intelligent number 10 who can lift crowds to their feet. Voted the best player based in Africa by CAF in 2011 I’m very much looking forward to seeing him at this level. In defence Aymen Abdennour is also definitely one to watch, excellent in his first season at Toulouse, a defender whose timing in the tackle is often impeccable.

Results in the build-up to this competition will have worried Trabelsi, particularly a 2-0 defeat to Côte d’Ivoire in which they were brushed aside surprisingly easily. This tournament may be a bit early to talk about Tunisia going all the way particularly with injury to the hugely important Issam Jemaa (Auxerre), but they should prove stern opponents and might just surprise.

Just Football Prediction: With the crowd behind them Gabon find enough to advance, along with Morocco. But this is a very difficult group to call with Tunisia a threat. I think Jemaa’s injury swings the pendulum away from the Carthage Eagles however. One of the three is in for big disappointment and an early journey home.

Just Football’s team-by-team African Cup of Nations 2012 group previews continues now with a look at Group B. Follow us on Twitter or subscribe to Just Football to get all the latest news from Just Football at the African Cup of Nations and beyond.

GROUP B

Angola – Burkina Faso – Côte d’Ivoire – Sudan

ANGOLA

Angola scraped their way through to AfCoN 2012 by the skin of their teeth in qualifying. A 2-0 win away to Guinea-Bissau on the final day meant the Palancas Negras narrowly edged out Uganda, who would have taken their place had the East Africans managed any sort of goal in a 0-0 draw against Kenya.

The Lusophone nation has become something of a mainstay at recent tournaments. Before 1996 Angola had never previously qualified – independence from Portugal came later than the standard in Africa and was promptly followed by a 27-year civil war. But this will be Angola’s 4th finals in a row. In previous years reaching the quarter finals would be considered a huge success. After reaching the final of the 2011 African Nations Championship in Sudan, it is all but expected.

To do so however Angola will have to overcome deceptively difficult opponents. They meet Burkina Faso and Sudan in their first two games and will need to find answers to an increasingly worrying goalscoring problem before a potentially decisive game against Ivory Coast. Manucho (Real Valladolid) hit four of Angola’s seven goals in qualifying but as Manchester United, Hull City and now Valladolid fans might attest, his explosion onto the scene in Ghana four years ago looks like a career zenith. Djalma (Porto), Mateus (Nacional) and veteran Flavio (Lierse) will need to help out too but creativity in midfield is an issue. Captain Andre Makanga is the defensive midfield sentinel who will look to dominate and supply Gilberto (Lierse) down the left.

At least 500 supporters are flying out to Malabo to cheer the Black Antelopes thanks to the “Movimento Nacional Espontâneo” fans group but it will be nothing like the fervent home support that carried them to the quarters on a crest of a wave in 2010.

BURKINA FASO

Burkina Faso and Côte d’Ivoire go together like beans and rice when it comes to recent African tournaments, so it was not surprise to see Les Etalons – The Stallions – drawn in Group B alongside the tournament favourites, having also met in 2010 World Cup qualifying and Cup of Nations finals groups.

Here they meet again at Burkina Faso’s 8th African Cup of Nations. Some might argue they are lucky to be participating at all. Days before the tournament the Court of Arbitration for Sport ruled in their favour after Namibia’s complaints that they fielded an ineligible player in qualifying were thrown out.

Burkina Faso played in a 3-team group in qualifying, following Mauritania’s withdrawal, and dominated it quite straightforwardly. Alain Traore (Auxerre) and Jonathan Pitroipa (Stade Rennes) are the key men, pacy, penetrative attacking players who will look to dominate central and wide areas to provide for Moumoni Dagano (Al-Khor) and Aristide Bance (Samsunspor). Pitroipa has been superb at Rennes; equally comfortable down either flank and a dangerous, skilful dribbler while Traore , who once had a trial at Manchester United, has delighted Auxerre fans with 7 goals and 2 assists in 17 games. Teenage prodigy Bertrand Traore, Alain’s brother, is another to look out for although not guaranteed playing time.

As Pitroipa told Just Football in a recent interview, the main objective is to qualify here, with anything else a welcome bonus.

CÔTE D’IVOIRE

“When elephants fight the grass gets hurt” is an old African proverb, often used to portray the feeling of powerlessness in the face of larger forces. As far as The Elephants of Côte d’Ivoire go the proverb not only retains its original meaning but gains added context. For if these Elephants had only shown more fight in the last two African Cup of Nations, we would surely not be talking about the ‘last chance’ for a golden generation spearheaded by the extensive talents of Didier Drogba and co.

Lack of fight cost them in 2008 when the team bought its own hype and became complacent only to be humiliated 4-1 by Egypt in a stunning semi-final. The psychological scars of that defeat took time to heal, but lessons were evidently not learned when, two years later, Côte d’Ivoire again lost their nerve, going 2-1 up in the last minute of their quarter final with Algeria only to immediately concede in stoppage time before losing in extra time. It was a catastrophe.

The Elephants would do well not to forget all that here. Fortunately star player and 2011 African Footballer of the Year Yaya Toure (Manchester City) is clear about the importance of fight:

“I have thought about this a lot of times, long and hard. I’ve come to the conclusion that we have not won anything because we have not got the right balance in the side yet.

“One thing that we are is very strong. In this tournament we are like a strong man who is going to fight another strong man. The one who triumphs is the one who knows how to control and use his strengths best.”

The ability is there for all to see. Drogba, the Toure brothers, Didier Ya Konan, Seydou Doumbia, Gervinho, Cheick Tiote - the list goes on. This is, by and large, the most naturally gifted and complete squad in Africa. But skills don’t always pay the bills. Hard work, concentration and unity are equally important virtues not always evident with this group.

“If my country does not achieve an African Cup of Nations success before I retire it will be my biggest failing as a player,” Toure junior has stated. Having cruised through qualifying, the time is now.

SUDAN

Sudan return to Africa’s continental showpiece after a four-year absence and will be looking to give a better account of themselves than in Ghana 2008, where they departed the scene with barely a whimper, losing all three group games 3-0.

1970 feels like a long time ago now, when, as hosts Sudan saw off all the competition to win their first and only title at this level. In the 42 years since this is the fourth time they have qualified. Mohamed Abdallah coached the Nile Crocodiles at the 2008 edition and does so again here, with Sudan the only team present to name squad entirely comprised of players from their domestic leagues.

Predominantly drawn from the big two – Al Hilal and Al Merreikh – Abdallah has chosen a large chunk of the squad that reached the semi-finals of the 2011 African Nations Championship in Khartoum last February. Captain Haitham Mustafa (Al Hilal) is in despite a recent fallout with the coach while upfront Mudathir El Tahir (Al Hilal), joint top scorer at the Nations Championship, will be looked to for goals.

It is a testament to the strength of Sudan’s domestic football that Abdallah can name a squad drawn entirely from its own league. Al Hilal and Al Merreikh are often steady performers in the CAF Champions League, but Sudan’s performance in Gabon and Equatorial Guinea will go far in determining just what sort of level the Nile Crocodiles are really at. Abdallah believes merely being here is enough; the aim for him is to “keep this growth up [so] we can qualify for the Nations Cup on a regular basis in future years.”

Prediction: Côte d’Ivoire progress along with Burkina Faso, who just have that little bit of extra craft needed to see off Angola.

Who do you think will qualify from Group B? Comments/thoughts welcome below.

Tales from Tier Two is a new series on Just Football in partnership with @tiertwofooty, in which we assess the promotion chances of the clubs in tier two of Europe’s major leagues at the midway point of 2011/12. First we assessed France’s Ligue 2 followed by Germany’s Bundesliga II. Now we head to Italy to look at Serie B, starting with league leaders Torino:

Torino

The race to kick off next season in Serie A looks set to go to the wire as inconsistency dominates at the head of Serie B. Torino head the table in mid-January despite only picking up 1 win from their last 4 games.

Historically Torino are one of the most successful teams in Italy but they have also been beset with troubles in recent years. Seven time Scudetto winners 7 times (including 5 in a row between 1942 & 1949) the last time Torino lifted the title was in the 1975/76 season. They have finished runners-up 7 times and won the Coppa Italia 5 times. Torino also have valuable experience in climbing out of Serie B having done so on 6 occasions, 3 times as champions and more recently 3 times via the playoff system.

A club with a storied history, the 4th May 1949 is forever a black day for Torino and football in general, an occasion when all but one player perished as the plane carrying the squad crashed into the hills of Superga on the outskirts of Turin.

In 2005 Torino won promotion from Serie B after winning the playoffs but they were denied promotion alongside Messina due to financial problems. Messina successfully appealed the decision but Torino were forced to re-form and lost the majority of their players.

Back to the present day and life in Turin is currently progressing quite well for experienced manager Giampiero Ventura. Ventura, a coach since 1976, joined Torino in the summer after being dismissed at Bari last February with the Puglia outfit sitting 9 points adrift at the foot of Serie A. The 63-year-old Genoa born man has led Lecce & Cagliari to Serie A and has also managed at Sampdoria, Udinese and Napoli.

This season, Torino began well and won 10 of their opening 13 games but only 3 of the following 9 as they aim to secure automatic promotion back to Serie A after 5th and 8th placed finishes in the last 2 seasons since relegation. This summer brought many new faces to the Stadio Olimpico. Alessandro Parisi joined from Ventura’s former club Bari, Nigerian Osariemen Ebagua came in from Varese but has so failed to make the impact he made in Lombardy last season. AC Milan loaned goalkeeper Ferdinando Coppola and he has impressed in his 21 games so far.

In front of Coppola is Angelo Ogbonna who has been a rock at centre back; the 23 year old made his international debut for the Azzurri in a 2-0 win in Poland, replacing Criscito for the last 13 minutes of the November friendly. Shrewd defences are proving vital in Serie B this season and Torino’s is the best to date with only 14 goals conceded. Going forward Rolando Bianchi, he of former Manchester City fame (?), is another key player.

Ventura recently secured the co-ownership of Riccardo Meggiorini with Genoa and the former Under-19 and U-20 striker is set to make his debut shortly. There are also rumours of the possible signings of defender Salvatore Masiello from Bari & Uruguayan forward Henry Gimenez.

Position: 1st

Points clear of chasing pack: 3

Will last the pace or tire in the race? Last the pace, but will need to keep an eye on Zdenek Zemen’s Pescara.

Predicted final position: 1st

Key Man: Angelo Ogbonna – Signed for the Granata Youth Academy & capped at Under 21 and full international level, if Torino don’t get promotion Ogbonna could well move to Serie A without them.

Up next: Sassuolo and the chasing pack. Follow the excellent @tiertwofooty on Twitter. You can also keep up-to-date with all the latest news by following us @JustFootball

No introductions, you know what this is. The African Cup of Nations 2012, in all its resplendent glory. This will be the 28th edition of the Cup of Nations and the third covered on Just Football after 2008 and 2010. For a general 2012 tournament preview and background head here – I will be writing a regular column for FourFourTwo throughout the competition. Here I present to you Just Football’s previews:

Note – Follow us on Twitter or subscribe to Just Football to get all the latest news from Just Football at the African Cup of Nations and beyond.

GROUP A

Equatorial Guinea – Libya – Senegal – Zambia

EQUATORIAL GUINEA

(a detailed look at the co-hosts is available here in a regular AFCON 2012 column I will be writing for FourFourTwo)

LIBYA

Against the backdrop of civil war and the overthrowing of Libyan leader Muammar Gadaffi after 42 years in power, Libya’s qualification for their third African Cup of Nations is both an extraordinary fairytale and, in a sense, simultaneously insignificant. At least 30,000 people were killed during the battles, including family members of some of the players in Libya’s squad, and with whole towns being burnt to the ground just a few short months ago it might appear at least a little churlish to some to be discussing who will play where for the country’s football team.

Nevertheless the beauty of football is the joy it can bring, and making it to Gabon and Equatorial Guinea against all odds can be seen as a huge source of pride and an inspirational achievement for a slowly rebuilding nation. Rarely can a qualifying campaign have been as fraught; the Mediterranean Knights had to cope with revolution, angst, anguish, physical weakness caused by Ramadan fasting during their 0-0 draw in Mozambique, the death of their popular team doctor from a heart attack the night before the Zambia game, player absences deriving from the conflict and the suspension of their domestic league. Two of their three scheduled home games also had to be played outside the country in Bamako, Mali and Cairo, Egypt.

Having overcome such varied hardships Libya may well feel they can achieve anything, and while difficult, it is not beyond the realms of possibility that they could qualify from Group A. An opening day result over the hosts will be crucial but Libya took 4 points from Zambia without conceding in qualifying, so hope springs eternal. Senegal in their final game will prove more difficult.

A penny-pinching defence that includes Samir Aboud (Al Ittihad) veteran keeper who was often heroic in qualifying and a shrewd, not to mention intensely committed, coach are key factors in getting Libya this far. If Brazilian Marcos Paqueta can maintain both defensive solidity and team unity, under the colours of a new flag, then Libya may well surprise people. Goalscoring is a worry though with just six scored in qualifying – the joint lowest of any side that made it to the tournament.

SENEGAL

Third favourites according to the bookmakers, Senegal’s sheer firepower upfront has to make them serious contenders for what would be a first ever African Cup of Nations crown. Sow-Niang, Sow-Niang-Cisse, Sow-Niang-Diouf-Cisse and NDoye-Cisse are just some of the forward combinations used by coach Amara Traore during qualifying – and that’s without even mentioning the Premier League’s second top scorer Demba Ba (Newcastle United). The variety in attack possessed by the Teranga Lions is truly frightening.

One of only three African nations to ever reach the quarter finals of a World Cup, what once looked a rich future for the West Africans has since become a forlorn tale of promise unfulfilled, with failure to qualify for the 2010 Cup of Nations behind even Gambia in their group indicative of a stark demise.

Traore was part of that 2002 Senegal squad in Japan/South Korea, a veteran attacker in the twilight of his career at Guegnon, and the stability he has brought to today’s exciting group of players via two years in charge of the national team (a veritable lifetime in Africa) has proved rewarding. Senegal conceded just two goals in qualifying and cruised through a group that included the mighty Cameroon. Ba, flavour of the month in England but a player that rarely made the starting lineup in qualifying, puts the team’s recent success down to the friendship and ‘love’ that has unified a close group.

Mamadou Niang (Al Sadd), Papiss Demba Cisse (Newcastle United), Moussa Sow (Lille) and Ba have all been prolific in recent seasons and goals should be forthcoming against the likes of Libya and Equatorial Guinea. In defence Kader Mangane (Rennes) – who spoke to Just Football not long ago – and Souleymane Diawara (Olympique Marseille) provide stability allowing Cheikh M’Bengue (Toulouse) and Ludovic Sane, in wonderful form at Bordeaux this season, to push forward. The semi finals is the minimum target for the Teranga Lions. Given their ability in all departments anything less would be disappointing.

ZAMBIA

Consistently one of the most entertaining sides to watch at recent African Cup of Nations, Zambia head to Equatorial Guinea/Gabon with lofty ambitions sparked by the return of influential coach Herve Renard. Renard guided the Chipolopolo (still the best nickname in world football) as far as the quarter finals in 2010 where Zambia were desperately unlucky not to go further, losing on penalties to a lead-footed Nigeria side they outplayed for large spells.

Zambia’s vibrancy, energy and spirit have proved hugely endearing to neutrals in recent tournaments, but Italian coach Dario Bonetti also instilled tactical discipline to their game during his time in charge. It was strange therefore to see him sacked almost as soon as qualification was secured, on the back of defeat to Libya. Renard, who straddled the touchline in Angola with all the reserved cool of a Calvin Klein model, left the Copper Bullets to take up an ultimately fruitless post with Angola.

Renard has talked up the possibility that Zambia could stun the continent and go all the way in 2012, and with two more years of experience under the belts of what was a fairly naïve squad in Angola, they could well surprise people. The absence of talisman Jacob Mulenga (FC Utrecht) through injury is a huge blow but the Katongo brothers Felix and Christopher are available as well as Isaac Chansa (Orlando Pirates), Collins Mbesuma (Golden Arrows) and the highly-rated 21-year-old Emmanuel Mayuka (Young Boys Bern). Teenager Evans Kangwa (Nkana) is another to look out for, top scorer in the regional Cosafa under-20 tournament in December.

Zambia conceded just two goals in qualifying but failed to beat Libya, opponents on matchday 2 here, home or away. Given they start with a tricky game against Senegal, they will surely need to rectify that if the Chipolopolo are to advance to the last eight.

Prediction: Zambia vs Libya on matchday 2 is the key game in this group I feel. Senegal should sweep through their opponents fairly comfortably leaving the rest to fight it out for second place – and a possible tie with Cote d’Ivoire. Zambia’s natural ability could prove too much for Libya’s immense spirit here. Senegal and Zambia to advance.

Africa’s finest are back. The African Cup of Nations 2012 is just days away now and with that it is time to crank up the coverage on Just Football. Since starting the site back in 2007 we have followed both the 2008 and 2010 Nations Cups very closely with reports, reviews and analysis, and will continue to do so in 2012 as the competition moves north from Angola to Equatorial Guinea and Gabon. First, a look at the full squads of all 16 teams. Previews of all sixteen teams to follow:

Follow Just Football on Twitter or subscribe to Just Football to keep in the loop on the African Cup of Nations and the football world in general.

Group A

Equatorial Guinea:

Goalkeepers: Danilo Emanuel (America, Brazil), Felipe Ovono (Sony de Ela Nguema), Achil Pensi Muokembe (The Panthers)

Defenders: Lawrence Sokota Doe (Al Shabab, Oman), Jose Bokung (Deportivo de Mongomo), Rui Fernando da Gracia Gomes (Logrones, Spain), David Álvarez (Langreo, Spain), Armando Sipoto Buale (Badajoz, Spain), Raúl Ivan Fabiani Bosio (C. D. Alcoyano, Spain)

Midfielders: Ben Esono Konate (The Panthers), Daniel Vazquez Evuy (Villaviciosa, Spain), Rolan de la Cruz Biyogo (Fortaleza, Colombia), Juvenal Edjogo Owono (Sabadell, Spain), Narcisse Ekanga Amia (TP Mazembe, DR Congo), Raúl Juan Máximo Eyama (Deportivo de Mongomo), Jose Javier Balboa Osa (SC Beira-Mar, Portugal), Fousseiny Kamissoko (Al Shabab, Oman)

Forwards: Ellong Douwala Viera (Sony de Ela Nguema), Rodolfo Bodipo (Deportivo de A Coruna, Spain), Ivan Bolado Palacios (Cartagena, Spain), Iban ‘Randy’ Iyanga (Union Deportiva Las Palmas, Spain), Thierry Fidjeu (Konyaspor, Turkey), Daniel-Bladimir Ekedo (San Roque de Lepe, Spain)

Libya:

Goalkeepers: Samir Aboud (Al Ittihad), Joumaa Gtit (Al Ahly), Mohamed Nachnouch (Al Ittihad)

Defenders: Mohamed Al Moghrabi (Olympique Khourigba, Morocco), Mohamed Mounir (FK Jagodina, Serbia), Younes Al Chibani (Olympique Khourigba, Morocco), Ali Salama (Olympique Beja, Tunisia), Oussama Achtiba (Al Najma, Lebanon), Ahmed Al Alwani (Al Madina), Rabii Al Lafi (Club Africain, Tunisia), Abdelaziz Belrich (Al Ittihad)

Midfielders: Jamal Abdallah (FC Braga, Portugal), Mohamed Al Snani (US Monastir, Tunisia), Marwan Al Mabrouk (Al Ittihad), Aboubakr Al Abidi (Al Nasr), Moataz Ben Amer (Al Ahly Benghazi), Walid Al Khatrouchi (Al Ittihad), Abdallah Al Cherif (Al Madina), Oussama Abdelsalam (Al Akhdhar), Faicel Al Badri (Al Hilal)

Forwards: Ahmed Saad (Club Africain, Tunisia), Ahmed Al Zwei (CA Bizertin, Tunisia), Ihab Al Boussifi (Al Ittihad)

Senegal:

Goalkeepers: Khadim Ndiaye (ASC Linguere), Bouna Coundoul (New York Red Bulls, USA), Pape Latyr Ndiaye (Ouakam)

Defenders: Kader Mangane (Rennes, France), Souleymane Diawara (Marseille, France), Lamine Sané (Bordeaux, France), Jacques Faty (Sivasspor, Turkey), Moustapha Bayal Sall (St Etienne, France), Pape Malickou Diakhaté (Granada, Spain), Cheikh Mbengue (Toulouse, France), Armand Traoré (QPR, England), Omar Daf (Brest, France)

Midfielders: Rémi Gomis (Valenciennes, France) , Mouhamed Diamé ( Wigan, England), Guirane N’Daw (Birmingham City, England), Ndiaye Dème Ndiaye (Arles-Avignon, France)

Forward: Issiar Dia ( Fenerbahce, Turkey), Moussa Sow (Lille, France), Papiss Demba Cissé (Newcastle United, England), Souleymane Camara (Montpelier, France), Mamadou Niang (Al Sadd, Qatar), Demba Ba (Newcastle United, England), Dame N’Doye (FC Copenhagen, Denmark).

Zambia:

Goalkeepers: Kennedy Mweene (Free State Stars, South Africa), Kalililo Kakonje (TP Mazembe, DR Congo), Joshua Titima (Power Dynamos)

Defenders: Francis Kasonde, Hichani Himonde, Stopilla Sunzu (all TP Mazembe, DR Congo), Nyambe Mulenga (Zesco United), Davies Nkausu (SuperSport United, South Africa), Joseph Musonda (Golden Arrows, South Africa), Kampamba Chintu (BidVests Wits, South Africa)

Midfielders: Nathan Sinkala (Green Buffaloes), Rainford Kalaba (TP Mazembe DR Congo), Noah Chivuta (Free State Stars, South Africa), Isaac Chansa (Orlando Pirates, South Africa), Clifford Mulenga (Bloemfontein Celtics, South Africa), Chisamba Lungu (Ural Oblast, Russia), Jonas Sakuwaha (El Merreikh, Sudan), Felix Katongo (Green Buffaloes), Christopher Katongo (Henan Jienye, China)

Strikers: Evans Kangwa (Nkana), Collins Mbesuma (Golden Arrows, South Africa), Emmanuel Mayuka (Young Boys, Switzerland) and James Chamanga (Dalian Shide, China)

GROUP B

Angola:

Goalkeepers: Carlos (unattached), Hugo (Kabuscorp), Wilson (Primeiro Agosto)

Defenders: Amaro (Primeiro Agosto), Dani Massunguna (Primeiro Agosto), Kali (Primeiro Agosto), Marco Airosa (AEL Limassol, Cyprus), Mingo Bille (Primeiro Agosto), Zuela (Atromitos, Greece)

Midfielders: Andre Makanga (Al Jahra, Kuwait), Dede (AEL Limassol, Cyprus), Gilberto (Lierse, Belgium), Mabina, Miguel (both Petro Atletico), Osorio (Recreativo Caala), Xara (Petro Atletico)

Forwards: Djalma (FC Porto, Portugal), Flavio (Lierse, Belgium), Jose Pierre Vunguidica (Preussen Munster, Germany), Love (Petro Atletico), Manucho (Real Valladolid, Spain), Mateus Galiano (Nacional, Portugal), Nando Rafael (FC Augsburg, Germany).

Burkina Faso:

Goalkeepers: Daouda Diakite (KV Turnhout, Belgium), Moussa Germain Sanou (St Etienne, France), Adama Sawadogo (Missile, Gabon)

Defenders: Ibrahim Gnanou (Alania Vladikavkaz, Russia), Bakary Kone (Olympique Lyon, France), Paul Koulibaly (Charleroi, Belgium), Saidou Mady Panandetiguiri (Valletta, Malta), Mamadou Tall (Persepolis, Iran)

Midfielders: Wilfried Balima (Sheriff Tiraspol, Moldova), Charles Kabore (Olympique Marseille, France), Mahamadou Kere (Konyaspor, Turkey), Mohamed Koffi (Petrojet, Egypt), Djakaridja Kone (Dynamo Bucharest, Romania), Jonathan Pitroipa (Stades Rennes, France), Florent Rouamba (Sheriff Tiraspol. Moldova), Bertrand Traore (unkown)

Forwards: Aristide Bance (Samsunspor, Turkey), Moumouni Dagano (Al Khor, Qatar), Prejuce Nakoulma (Gornik Zabrze, Poland), Issiaka Ouedraogo (FC Admira Wacker Modling, Austria), Abdou Razak Traore (Lechia Gdansk, Poland), Alain Traore (AJ Auxerre, France), Narcisse Yameogo (AD Camacha, Portugal)

Côte d’Ivoire:

Goalkeepers: Barry Boubacar (Lokeren, Belgium), Gerrard Gnanahouan (Avranches, France), Daniel Yeboah (Dijon, France)

Defenders: Siaka Tiene (Paris St Germain, France), Arthur Boka (Stuttgart, Germany), Benjamin Angoua Brou (Valenciennes, France), Igor Lolo (FC Kuban Krasnodar, Russia), Didier Zokora (Trabzonspor, Turkey), Emmanuel Eboue (Galatasaray, Turkey), Kolo Toure (Manchester City, England), Souleymane Bamba (Leicester City, England)

Midfielders: Kafoumba Coulibaly (Nice, France), Jean-Jacques Gosso Gosso (Orduspor, Turkey), Didier Ya Konan (Hannover, Germany), Cheick Tiote (Newcastle United, England), Max Gradel (St Etienne, France), Yaya Toure (Manchester City, England)

Forwards: Gervinho (Arsenal, England), Seydou Doumbia (CSKA Moscow, Russia), Didier Drogba (Chelsea, England), Salomon Kalou (Chelsea, England), Wilfried Bony (Vitesse Arnhem, Netherlands), Abdul Kader Keita (Al Sadd, Qatar)

Sudan:

Goalkeepers: Mahjoub El Moez (Al Hilal), Bhaldien Mohammed (Al Merreikh), Akram Al Hadi (Al Merreikh)

Defenders: Musab Omar (Al Merreikh), Ngemaldien Abdullah (Al Merreikh), Ahmed Al Basha (Al Merreikh), Bala Jaber (Al Merreikh), Mowaia Bashir (Ittihad Madani), Seifaldien Ali (Al Hilal), Khalifa Ahmed (Al Hilal)

Midfielders: Haitham Mustafa (Al Hilal), Baderaldien Aldoud (Al Merreikh), Faisal Musa (Al Merreikh), Amier Kamal (Al Merreikh), Nazer Hamed (Al Hilal), Mohamed Al Tahir (Al Hilal) Alaadine Yousif (Al Hilal), Mohammed Ahmed Bashir (Al Hilal), Mohammed Moussi (Al Nsoor)

Forwards: Ramadan Alagab (Al Mourada), Mohammed Sheikh Eldin (Al Hasahesa), Mudathir El Tahir (Al Hilal), Abdulrahman Hassan (Al Merreikh)

GROUP C

Gabon:

Goalkeepers: Yann Bidonga (Mangasport), Stephane Bitseki Moto (US Bitam), Didier Ovono (Le Mans, France)

Defenders: Georges Ambourouet (Missile FC), Moise Brou Apanga (Brest, France), Bruno Ecuele Manga (Lorient, France), Remy Ebanega (US Bitam), Edmond Mouele (Mangasport), Rodrigue Moundounga (Olympique Beja, Tunisia), Charly Moussonou (Missile FC), Henri Ndong (US Bitam)

Midfielders: Andre Biyogo Poko (Bordeaux, France), Cedric Boussougou (Mangasport), Levy Madinda (Celta Vigo, Spain), Bruno Mbanangoye Zita (Dinamo Minsk, Ukraine), Cedric Moubamba (US Bitam), Lloyd Palun (Nice, France)

Forwards: Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (St Etienne, France), Daniel Cousin (FC Sapins), Fabrice Do Marcolino (Laval), Roguy Meye (Zalaegerszeg, Hungary), Eric Mouloungui (Nice, France), Stephane Nguema (US Bitam).

Morocco:

Goalkeepers: Nadir Lamyaghri (Wydad Casablanca), Issam Badda (FUS Rabat), Mohamed Amsif (Augsburg, Germany)

Defenders: Jamal Allioui (Al Kharytiyath, Qatar), Michael Chretien (Bursaspor, Turkey), Badr El Kaddouri (Celtic, Scotland), Abdelhamid El Kaoutari (Montpellier,France), Mehdi Benatia (Udinese, Italy), Abdelfattah Boukhriss (FUS Rabat), Mustapha Mrani (MAS), Ahmed Kantari (Brest, France)

Midfielders: Houcine Kharja (Fiorentina, Italy), Adil Hermach (Al Hilal, Saudi Arabia), Karim Ahmadi (Feyenoord, Netherlands), Younes Belhanda (Montpellier, France), Mbark Boussoufa (Anzhi Makhachkala, Russia), Youssouf Hadji (Rennes, France), Mehdi Carcela (Anzhi Makhachkala, Russia)

Forwards: Noureddine Amrabat (Kayserispor, Turkey), Oussama Assaidi (Heerenveen, Netherlands), Youssef El Arabi (Al Hilal, Saudi Arabia), Adel Taarabt (Queens Park Rangers, England), Marouane Chamakh (Arsenal, England)

Niger:

Goalkeepers: Daouda Kassaly (Coton Sport, Cameroon), Rabo Saminou (Sahel SC), Lossény Doumbia (DC Motema Pembe, DR Congo)

Defenders: Koffi Dan Kowa (ES Zarzis, Tunisia), Kader Amadou Dodo (Olympic FC), Mohamed Chikoto (Platinium Stars, South Africa), Mohamed Soumaïla (Olympic FC), Djibrilla Moussa (AS Garde Nationale), Souleymane Mazadou (Union Sportive Marignanaise, France), Jimmy Bulus (Hussein Dey, Algeria), Issiaka Koudize (AS Garde Nationale)

Midfielders: Idrissa Laouali (AS FAN), Abdoul-Karim Lancina (Coton Sport, Cameroon), William Tonji Ngounou (IF Limhamn, Sweden), Olivier Harouna Bonnes (Lille, France), Yacouba Ali (Africa Sports, Ivory Coast), Idrissa Saïdou (Coton Sport, Cameroon), Boubacar Talatou (Orlando Pirates, South Africa), Moutari Amadou (Akokana FC), Issoufou Boubacar (FC Phuket, Thailand)

Attackers: Moussa Maazou (Zulte Waregem, Belgium), Issoufou Alhassane Dante (Raja Casablanca, Morocco), Kamilou Daouda (CS Sfaxien, Tunisia)

Tunisia:

Goalkeepers: Rami Jeridi (Stade Tunisien), Aymen Mathlouthi (Etoile du Sahel), Moez Ben Cherifia (Esperance)

Defenders: Khalil Chammam (Esperance), Anis Boussaidi (Rostov, Russia), Aymen Abdennour (Toulouse, France), Bilel Iffa (Club Africain), Karim Haggui (Hannover, Germany), Ammar Jemal (FC Cologne, Germany)

Midfielders: Adel Chedli (Etoile du Sahel), Oussama Darragui (Esperance), Mejdi Traoui (Esperance), Khaled Korbi (Esperance), Wissem Ben Yahia (Mersin, Turkey), Yassine Chikhaoui (FC Zurich, Switzerland), Hocine Ragued (Karabukspor, Turkey), Jamel Saihi (Montpellier, France)

Forwards: Issam Jemaa (Auxerre, France), Zouhaier Dhaouadi (Club Africain), Youssef Msakni (Esperance), Saber Khelifa (Evian, France), Amine Chermiti (FC Zurich, Switzerland), Sami Allagui (Mainz, Germany)

GROUP D

Botswana:

Goalkeepers: Modiri Marumo (Bay United, South Africa), Noah Maposa (Gaborone United), Kabelo Dambe (Rollers)

Defenders: Mompathi Thuma (BDF XI), Ndiyapo Letsholathebe (Police XI), Musa Ohilwe (Gaborone United), Mosimanegape Ramohibidu (BMC), Monametsi Kelebale (NICO), Tshepo Motlhabankwe (Mochudi Centre Chiefs)

Midfielders: Mogogi Gabonamong (SuperSport United, South Africa), Joel Mogorosi, Pontsho Moloi, Othusitse Pilane (all Mochudi Centre Chiefs), Boitumelo Mafoko (Cape Town Santos, South Africa) Ofentse Nato (Gaborone United), Phenyo Mongala (Bloemfontein Celtic, South Africa), Patrick Motsepe, Tshireletso (BDF XI), Mogakolodi Ngele (Rollers)

Strikers: Jerome Ramatlhakwane (Unattached), Diphetogo Selolwane (SuperSport, South Africa), Onalethata Tshekiso (Rollers), Moemedi Moatlhaping (Bay United, South Africa)

Ghana:

Goalkeepers: Adam Kwarasey (Stromsgodset, Norway), Daniel Adjei (Liberty Professionals, Ghana), Ernest Sowah (Berekum Chelsea, Ghana)

Defenders: Samuel Inkoom (Dnipro, Ukraine), John Paintsil (Leicester City, England), Daniel Opare (Standard Liege, Belgium), Masawudu Alhassan (Genoa, Italy), Lee Addy (Dalian Aerbim, China), John Boye (Rennes, France), John Mensah (Lyon, France), Jonathan Mensah (Evian, France), Isaac Vorsah (Hoffenheim, Germany)

Midfielders: Charles Takyi (St Pauli, Germany), Emmanuel Agyemang Badu (Udinese ,Italy), Derek Boateng (Dnipro, Ukraine), Anthony Annan (Vitesse Arnhem, Netherlands), Mohammed Abu (Stromsgodset, Norway), Kwadwo Asamoah (Udinese, Italy), Sulley Muntari (Inter Milan, Italy), Andre Ayew (Marseille, France)

Forwards: Prince Tagoe (Bursaspor, Turkey), Asamoah Gyan (Al Ain, UAE), Jordan Ayew (Marseille, France)

Guinea:

Goalkeepers: Aboubacar Camara (Alcoyano, Spain), Abdoul Aziz Keita (AS Kaloum), Naby Yattara (Arles-Avignon, France)

Defenders: Thierno Bah (Lausanne, Switzerland), Dianbodo ‘Bobo’ Balde (Arles-Avignon, France), Ibrahima Sory Bangoura (Djoliba, Mali), Lanfia Camara (WS Woluwe, Belgium), Morlaye Cisse (EGS Gafsa, Tunisia), Ibrahima Diallo (Waasland Beveren, Belgium), Kamil Zayatte (Buyuksehir, Turkey), Oumar Kalabane (Al Dhafra, United Arab Emirates)

Midfielders: Mamadou Dioulde Bah (VfB Stuttgart, Germany), Habib Jean Balde (Universitatea Cluj, Romania), Sadio Diallo (Bastia, France), Pascal Feindouno (Sion, Switzerland), Naby Soumah (CS Sfaxien, Tunisia)

Forwards: Alhassane Bangoura (Rayo Vallecano, Spain), Ismael Bangoura (Al Nasr, United Arab Emirates), Ousmane Barry (Etoile du Sahel, Tunisia), Abdoul Camara (Sochaux, France), Ibrahima Conte (Ghent, Belgium), Ibrahim Traore (VfB Stuttgart, Germany), Ibrahima Yattara (Al Shabab, Saudi Arabia).

Mali:

Goalkeepers: Oumar Sissoko (Metz, France), Soumbeyla Diakite (Stade Malien), Alimamy Sogoba (As Réal).

Defenders: Ousmane Coulibaly (Brest, France), Idrissa Coulibaly (Esperance Tunis, Tunisia), Drissa Diakite (Nice, France), Cedric Kante (Panathinaikos, Greece), Mohamed Fofana (Toulouse, France), Adama Tamboura (Metz, France ), Mouhamadou N’Diaye (Vitoria Guimarães, Portugal), Abdoulaye Maiga (USM Alger, Algeria).

Midfielders: Seydou Keita (Barcelona, Spain), Kalilou Traoré (OB Odense, Denmark), Bakay Traore (Nancy, France), Abdou Traore (Bordeaux, France), Samba Diakite (Nancy, France), Mahamane Traore (Metz , France), Sidi Koné (Lyon, France), Samba Sow (Lens, France).

Forwards: Modibo Maiga (Sochaux, France), Garra Dembele (Freiburg, Germany), Cheick Diabate (Bordeaux, France), Mustapha Yatabare (Guingamp, France).

As always, Just Football will be following the African Cup of Nations very closely and providing extensive coverage. Follow us on Twitter or subscribe to Just Football to keep in the loop.

Tales from Tier Two is a new series on Just Football in partnership with @tiertwofooty, in which we assess the promotion chances of the clubs in tier two of Europe’s major leagues at the halfway point of 2011/12. First up was France’s Ligue 2 followed by Germany and Bundesliga II league leaders Fortuna Dusseldorf. Now for the chasers, starting with second place Greuther Fuerth:

Greuther Fuerth

SpVgg Greuther Fuerth currently hold the 2nd promotion place in the 2.Bundesliga as they push for a place in the top flight for the first time since the introduction of the Bundesliga. Fuerth were top flight regulars until 1963 when the club failed to qualify for the newly formed Bundesliga and spent the next 20 years in the 2nd tier competing in the Regionalliga Sud and 2.Bundesliga when it was formed in 1974.

Relegation to the 3rd tier Bayernliga followed in 1983 and towards the end of the 1980 Fuerth slipped into the 4th tier. Promoted back to the 2.Bundesliga in 1997 the team from the Northern suburbs of Nuremberg have remained there since with their best finish being 4th place last season.

Mike Buskens is the man in charge at the modest Trolli Arena and perhaps his greatest achievement came just weeks ago when Fuerth travelled the 8 miles to face local rivals Nürnberg in the DFB Pokal and returned with a 1-0 win. Buskens played much of his career at Schalke and until he arrived in Fuerth he spent six years assisting and managing Schalke II and a year as assistant to the first team, as well as a short period as interim manager at the Veltins Arena.

Fuerth are currently second top scorers behind Fortuna Dusseldorf and have a solid defence that has only conceded 14 goals in 19 games (six of those coming in just two games, including three in an opening day defeat to fellow promotion rivals Eintracht Frankfurt).

Strikers Oliver Occean and Christopher Nothe have shared 20 goals this season, Occean has been a revelation since his summer move from Kickers Offenbach and the Canadian is well on the way to eclipsing the 16 goals he hit in 3.Liga last season. Another key summer signing was Heinrich Schmidtgal, a free transfer from relegated Rot Weiss Oberhausen. Nicolai Muller left to join Bundesliga side Mainz but Fuerth managed to fend off the vultures circling the important duo of Philippine international Stephan Schrock and defender Mergim Mavraj.

Fuerth have moved quickly in the January transfer window to secure the services of Gerald Asamoah. The former Schalke and St Pauli man joins on an 18 month deal, although Buskens may have a tough task to integrate the former German international into an already firing strike force.

Buskens men will certainly be in the mix at the end of the season but whether they have enough quality to see off the challenges of Eintracht Frankfurt and St Pauli remains to be seen.

Position: 2nd

Points clear of chasing pack: 1

Will last the pace or tire in the race? They will be there or thereabouts but have some quality opposition to overcome.

Final Position: 3rd

Key Man: Sercan Sararer, The flying winger is the man who creates for the front two and also weighs in with some key goals.

Bundesliga II – The Contenders:

The title race in 2.Bundesliga is already a five horse race; Paderborn in fifth have done remarkably well to be in the top half let alone the race for promotion. Nick Proschwitz has been the hero for Paderborn alongside midfielder Daniel Bruckner. Proschwitz has hit 12 goals since his summer signing from FC Thun and is sure to attract interest in the transfer window. However it is unlikely Paderborn will be able to find the consistency to mount a challenge on the top 3 places come May.

St Pauli currently sit 4th, one point behind Fuerth as they aim for an immediate return to the Bundesliga. Pauli have quality throughout the side but in the likes of Max Kruse, Fabien Boll & experienced forward Marius Ebbers they will surely view a place in the playoffs as an absolute minimum. Throw into the mix the crowd at the Millentor who are the proverbial 12th man on so many occasions.

Best equipped to wrestle 2nd place away from Greuther Fuerth are Eintracht Frankfurt. The best supported team in the league slipped up in the run up to the winter break, losing 2 of their last 4 games, and despite losing Theofanis Gekas to Turkish side Samsunspor in January still have a squad full of quality.

Former Monchengladbach favourite Karim Matmour was a great summer acquisition as was Mohammadou Idrissou, whilst last season’s leaking defence has been ably plugged by Croatia Gordon Schildenfeld. An agreement with Manchester City which will see the English club’s youngsters come to Frankfurt may also pay dividends when the trophies are handed out. Only Ghanaian Mohammed Adu has crossed the Channel so far but he is expected to make a mark once the season resumes in early February.

Follow the excellent @tiertwofooty on Twitter. You can also keep up-to-date with all the latest news by following us @JustFootball

Tales from Tier Two is a new series on Just Football in partnership with @tiertwofooty, in which we assess the promotion chances of the clubs in tier two of Europe’s major leagues at the halfway point of 2011/12. Previously we assessed France and Ligue 2 – time to head East. To Germany and the Bundesliga II:

Fortuna Dusseldorf

The top 5 in Germany’s 2.Bundesliga have established a comfort zone from the rest of the league but try as they might, they cannot seem to shake each other off as only 3 points separate leaders Fortuna Dusseldorf from 5th placed surprise package SC Paderborn.

Fortuna Dusseldorf are a club that his been through the mill recently, relegated from the Bundesliga in the 1996/97 season 7 points adrift of Hansa Rostock, little did Fortuna’s supporters realise the only way was down from there. From Bundesliga regulars of the 70’s & 80’s they became a yo-yo club in the 90’s & facing financial ruin slipped as low as the Oberliga Nordrhein in the new millennium. Back to back promotions saw Fortuna climb out of the Regionlliga Nord & straight through the newly formed 3.Liga into Germany’s 2nd tier.

Fortuna have amassed 42 points from 19 games up to the winter break 2 points ahead of Greuther Furth and 3 in front of Eintracht Frankfurt, St Pauli & Paderborn. The battle for the two automatic promotion spots & one playoff berth looks set to rumble on to the very last day.

Under the leadership of Norbert Meier since 2008 Fortuna have finished runners up in the 3.Liga & gained respectable finishes of 4th & 7th in their 2 seasons back in the 2nd tier. Meier, a competitive midfielder who spent most of his career at Werder Bremen before finishing at Borussia Monchengladbach, then took charge at Borussia Park in 1997. Spells at Duisburg & Dresden following but Meier is universally famed for taking a dive following an altercation with Koln’s Albert Streit whilst in charge at Duisburg. Replays showed Meier head butt Streit then feign injury as the Koln man was sent off. Meier was suspended by MSV & banned from managerial activities for three months by the German FA.

Fortuna’s success so far can be put down to their no nonsense attacking formation which has yielded 43 goals in 19 games & just 1 defeat (in the last game before the winter break to fellow high flyers Paderborn). They have hit 4 goals 4 times, including 3 games in a row & also hit FSV Frankfurt for 5.

The loan signing of Max Beister from Hamburg at the start of last season on a 2 year loan has proved to be a masterstroke. Beister is sure to be one Germany’s top players and is already being courted by Dortmund. Beister can play upfront, midfield or out wide and the Under 21 star has weighed in with 8 goals in 19 starts. Other summer signings were mainly cover as Meier clearly believed he had a squad capable of promotion.

With a solid centre back partnership of Jens Langeneke and Assani Lukimya and a midfield consisting of captain Andreas Lambertz and Adam Bodzek that allows Beister & Oliver Fink to supply 34 year old top scorer Sascha Rosler and Thomas Broeker, Fortuna seem to have found the perfect blend. With no outgoings planned things are looking healthy at the ESPIRT Arena. Timo Furuholm, a Finnish International has joined from Inter Turku having scored 22 in 33 games to add yet more firepower to the side.

Position: 1st

Points clear of chasing pack: 3

Will last the pace or tire in the race?: Last the pace. Comfortably. Should win the League with points to spare

Predicted Final Position: 1st

Key Man: Andreas Lambertz – Captain marvel, a behind the scenes hero who adds untold balance to the team.