Verbeek noted that although his side are fully focused on Germany, the Black Stars remain a torn in his flesh that he must deal with.

He told FIFA.com: “I think Serbia will actually be the crucial game. The final group game will be the decisive one. Germany, Ghana and Serbia; all three opponents have three totally different ways of playing football.

“So at this moment we are fully focused on Germany and then we have six days to prepare ourselves for Ghana, who showed again at the Africa Cup of Nations that even with a lot of players who may not make the final cut they still have a fantastic team and can get the results.

“I think, watching the Africa Cup of Nations, Australians realised Ghana will be a difficult team to beat. And Serbia have nothing to lose, so that makes for a dangerous opponent. Especially if you see the quality of their players and their qualification campaign.”

The Dutchman, who was in South Africa recently to inspect their base, said he was happy with the preparation so far and foresees one of the best World Cups ever.

“I think this is my seventh or eighth time in South Africa and I have always enjoyed being here, even as a tourist. It will be a fantastic World Cup, for me there is no doubt about that.”