The Black Stars claimed a deserved 1-0 win over Serbia to atone for a number of disappointing displays from the African representatives in the World Cup.

A late penalty from Asamoah Gyan capped a brave and battling performance from a young Ghana side who missed inspirational midfielder Michael Essien due to injury.

They've successfully replicated their Nations Cup strategy to make the most of their defensive prowess and overcome Serbia.

Their defensive qualities came into prominence during Africa's premier tournament in January when they reached the final before losing to Egypt.

Ghana closed down spaces at the back, with the help of their steadfast defense and compact midfield, and hit their opponents on the break.

They claimed narrow 1-0 victories over hosts Angola and Nigeria in the quarter final and semi final after making it difficult for them to mount any threats.

They did the same against Serbia on Sunday, with central defensive pair Isaac Vorsah and John Mensah keeping strikers at bay and central midfield duo Anthony Annan and Kevin-Prince Boateng perfectly accomplishing their duties.

Ghana coach Milovan Rajevac should stick to his useful tactics during the next two games against Germany and Australia to guide his team to a place in the second round for the second successive World Cup.

But he could work on improving his side's counter-attack abilities though.

Gyan, who usually plays as a lone striker, found himself isolated during large parts of the victory over Serbia.

Udinese playmaker Kwadwo Asamoah was given an advanced role so he was not his best. He excels when he plays deeper, feeding Gyan with his deft through passes.

Ghana should not waste the chance of sparing African blushes, because the displays of their neighbors in the continent are not so encouraging.