Uruguay claimed their first Soccer World Cup semifinal appearance in 40 years after a 4-2 penalty shootout win over Ghana at Soccer City on Friday.

They may be beset by injury but that has become de rigueur for the Black Stars, writes Mark Gleeson.

Uruguay are on the verge of their first World Cup semifinal appearance in 40 years with Ghana blocking their way at Soccer City on Friday.

Ghana will be bidding to become the first African nation to reach the semifinals of the World Cup when they play Uruguay on Friday.

Ghana have injury and suspension headaches ahead of a World Cup quarterfinal against Uruguay at Soccer City on Friday.

Ghana became the only African team from the original six to qualify on Wednesday for the knockout stage of the World Cup.

Kevin-Prince Boateng will need all his streetwise skills when Ghana comes up against the country of his birth Germany in their final.

Michael Essien's importance to Ghana cannot be underestimated, leaving the Black Stars on edge as they await a decision on his fitness.

The only African side to make it out of the group stage in 2006 and the first to qualify for South Africa 2010, Ghana are anxious to prove themselves.