After bagging all three points from their first outing in Group B of the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations, Mali's Seydou Keita has cautioned Ghana that they are a much better team than they were last year.

The 33-year-old captain, whose goal gave the Eagles an opening win against Niger has already served notice of their ambitions in South Africa.

“We're ready for this Cup of Nations," he told FIFA.com.

“We're ready. It's an important competition in many ways for Mali and we don't want to mess it up. We need to work our socks off and make sure that Mali can be proud of its children.”

The clash with Ghana in Port Elizabeth on Thursday is the first meeting since Mali beat the Black Stars 2-0 to finish third in the last edition.

Keita says Mali are an improved side and have reason to aim high.

“The team has grown up. We've got more experience and more confidence too thanks to the last Cup of Nations.

“Of course, there's been a change of coach as well, with Alain Giresse, who did a lot for us, having left. Patrick [Carteron] is in charge now and he's already taught us a lot. We also have some new players who are making their own contribution.

“One thing is sure, though: we're not worse than we were in 2012. We believe we can win the title and we want to do better than we did last year. If we have any chance of going all the way, there's no doubt that we'll seize it.”

Ghana have a point from their opening 2-2 draw with DR Congo.