Alberta Sackey's team can no longer qualify

Ghana coach Okoe Aryee has blamed his team's disappointing second half performance against Russia on a lack of preparation and fitness.

Despite an excellent first half, the Black Queens trailed 1-0 at the break but then struggled in the second period as they visibly tired and conceded two more goals.

"My team has not played up to my expectations," a disappointed Aryee said.

"We were not physically fit and prepared, and that is why we were unable to stay strong in the second half."

The Black Queens' 3-0 defeat leaves them bottom of Group D with no points and no hope of qualifying since second-placed China already have four points.

Yet Ghana have won many new fans in America with their positive approach, and Aryee plans to go out on a high in the Africans' final group game against Australia.

"We are going to meet Australia squarely," the coach explained.

"We want to win at least one match, so we are going to play all out."

Yet first Ghana will have to score a goal.