Michael Essien 2–1 defeat of Zambia as the "Black Stars" secured qualification to the final round. He started in both play-off matches against Egypt and was named in Ghana's squad for the tournament finals. He made one appearance, coming on as a second-half substitute in the opening 2–1 defeat to the United States. Essien is a physically strong midfielder, who often plays in a central midfield role. He has often been touted as a box-to-box midfielder for his ability to exert energy in supporting both offensive and defensive play, and for his powerful and tough tackling playing style, which has earned him
Enefiok Essien of Laws. In 1998 he obtained a Doctor of Philosophy in law from University Birmingham, England. He is a lawyer, professor of law and the current Vice Chancellor of University of Uyo. In 2005, he was indicted by the Court of Appeal, Calabar of sexual misconduct against a student after expulsion from Uniuyo. During the period of the incident Enefiok Essien who was the invigilator and also head of the examination malpractice panel allegedly swayed vote against the female student involved. The court of appeal after asking Enefiok to swear an affidavit to counter the student's accusation refused, with accusations