Ghana street party starts as side goes through

ACCRA, June 22 (Reuters) Ghanaians today poured into the streets of the capital Accra, jumping on car bonnets, dancing and singing as the West African country secured a spot in the next round of the World Cup by beating the United States.

The air rang with car horns, whistles and shouts of ''Go Ghana'' as fans clapped their hands, blew whistles and beat metal tins, pots and drums on Oxford Street, a busy road at the heart of Accra's bustling Osu district.

''I am very happy. After the first match I was so angry, I prayed to God, he answered my prayers and and we are rejoicing. If we pray to Almighty God, we will beat Brazil 2-0. Today is a very good day for Africa. Africa as a whole is so happy,'' said Joseph Chukwu, watching the party from a roadside stall. Ghana beat the United States 2-1 to get through to the last 16 for the first time in their fist World Cup.

''I am very happy. I am very sure we will score Brazil 2-0. I am very, very proud,'' said Michael Mikoku, draped in Ghana's red, yellow and green national flag.

Ghana is the first African side to have secured a place in the knockout stages at this World Cup, although Tunisia could still get through if it beats Ukraine tomorrow.

REUTERS SB KN2355