Ghana are moving closer to fulfilling a destiny at the African Nations Cup as they start favourites to beat Tunisia in Franceville on Sunday.

The Black Stars have emerged as a powerhouse in the continental game since their injury-hit side, without the likes of Michael Essien, Sulley Muntari and John Mensah, were unexpected finalists at the 2010 Nations Cup in Angola.

The same side then came within a penalty of becoming the first African side to reach the World Cup semi-finals in South Africa six months later.

Now, with more maturity, competence and a growing profile, Ghana must be considered favoured for a place in the final at minimum, if not to take the trophy.

Save for the injured Essien, they are at full strength and have even been able to leave Mensah out of the starting line-up since his return from suspension.

Exciting players like Asamoah Gyan, Dede Ayew, Kwadwo Asamoah and Emmanuel Agyemang Badu, who scored a stunning goal against Guinea in their last group game on Wednesday, represent the potential that could deliver Ghana their first Nations Cup title in 30 years.

They finished their three group matches unbeaten, winning the first two and then holding out against Guinea for a draw to top their group in Franceville.

Ghana midfielder Anthony Annan will also line up despite his mother's death this week. The Ghana team have been given permission to wear black armbands in her memory.

Of the 16 teams who participated at the Nations Cup, Tunisia were the last to win the Nations Cup when they hosted the event in 2004.

Only captain Karim Haggui remains from that winning side, after the 35-year-old midfielder Adel Sellimi walked out on the team because he had not got any playing time.

Tunisia coach Sami Trabelsi is confident about his side's chances although he does admit it is their toughest test at the tournament to date.

"I think Tunisia has the quality to beat any opponent. We don't think about the name of the teams," Trabelsi said.