Failing the tactical test

The greatest challenge that faced the Zebras this year was for the 2008 African Cup of Nations to be played in Ghana from January 20 to February 10. The campaign was a see-saw with fans' hearts throbbing in anxiety every time the team took to the field. The campaign was a mixed bag of fortunes.

There were moments when Ghana was within reach while at times the dream looked dead, though not buried. Till the last game, the Zebras were still in the running so long as they achieved the near impossible - beat Egypt in Cairo - and hoped the game between Burundi and Mauritania produced a favourable outcome. But on October 13, it all ended when Egypt narrowly beat the Zebras 1-0 in Cairo.