Black Satellites coach, Orlando Wellington radiates enthusiasm and optimism on the eve of Ghana's defence of the Africa Youth Championship.

Ghana begins the defence of the title won two years ago in Group B with a tough opener against Nigeria on Monday in a group that also includes Cameroon and Gambia.

Wellington, an assistant in the last title-winning side is excited that Ghana are in South Africa to defend their title after a busy qualifying campaign.

"Fans back home would be expecting another successful campaign. Certainly, they [fans] know we are capable of winning it [title] again," says Wellington.

Ghana, who are also the reigning Under-20 world champions know they face a difficult campaign, starting with their rivalry against Nigeria at the Dobsonville Park in Johannesburg.

"I don't think it's about sentiments but winning for nation first and getting the campaign going. We understand the rivalry between ourselves.

"We would play to protect our status as Champions. Every team we play against would be motivated to beat us and so would be to ensure that we keep our title."

"Nigeria have a good side, they are very strong. We respect them.

"But I have enough confidence in my team to challenge for the title again. This present squad can go on to win it," the Ghana coach says.

After famously lifting the continental trophy and going on to win the World Cup, Ghana's stock still remains on the high. But for Orlando Wellington, the first game with Nigeria is the most important.

"It's one game at a time. We cant think beyond that game. We only have Nigeria to think about for now," he added.

Four teams in each group will meet in a round-robin format, with group winners and runners-up qualifying for the FIFA-organized U-20 World Cup in Colombia beginning in July.