Michael Essien over the United States, and helped Ghana become the only African team to reach the second round of the 2006 World Cup. However, he was suspended for Ghana's second round match against Brazil and could only watch as Ghana lost 0–3. Upon the team's return to Ghana, Essien said the team had gained invaluable experience and would be aiming to make the next finals, held in Africa for the first time in the tournament's history at the 2010 World Cup. In the 2008 Africa Cup of Nations, Essien turned in another strong performance, driving the team to the semi-finals with
Essien Udim Essien Udim Essien Udim is one of the Annang speaking Local Government Areas in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. It was created out of the former Ikot Ekpene division and included the following clans in Annang land: Ukana, Adiasim, Ikpe, Okon, Nsasak, Ekpenyong Atai and, Ukana Ikot Ntuen,Odoro Ikot, AFaha. Historically, it was the most populated area among the Annang Land with its headquarters in Afaha Ikot Ebak. Currently, its chairman is Barr. Paulinus J. Idio. In Ikpe Annang there are fourteen villages which are:Ibam, Ikot Akpan, Ikot Ntuen, Nnung Iyang, Udok, Mbia Obong, Mbiabet, Ikot Ekpe, Ikot Eside, Ebe, Ikot