Germany midfielder Michael Ballack has launched his country into an open war with World Cup group opponents Ghana, lashing out at Kevin Prince Boateng implying that the Black Stars midfielder wants to prevent him from playing at the tournament next month.
Chelsea midfielder Ballack accused Portsmouth's Boateng of purposely trying to hurt him with a late tackle in Saturday’s FA Cup final.
The ex-Germany international, who recently switch nationality to play for Ghana, is likely to play when the two sides meet sparking controversy after Boateng’s brother Jerome was named for Germany sparking a fierce family debate.
The two countries meet in the group phase of the tournament but the tackle has left a bitter taste in Ballack’s mouth.
VIDEO: Watch Boateng's tackle on Ballack
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The German skipper had to leave Chelsea's 1-0 FA Cup final victory over Pompey just before half-time following a reckless challenge from Boateng on Saturday.
Boateng was shown a yellow card by referee Chris Foy, but Ballack was adamant the Pompey player meant to harm him ahead of the tournament.
"I am more worried about my injury now," said Ballack, who left Wembley with his right foot in a protective boot.
"I have seen it on TV and to say it was not on purpose means you have to be a friend of Boateng.
"Boateng was lucky to get away with a yellow but it is football and if the referee controls the game and decides it is no red card you have to accept it.
"I can walk on it, not quite comfortable but I can walk, which is not the worst thing. I don't think there is a break.
"We will have to wait until tomorrow to have a scan, then we'll know more. Hopefully it won't stop me playing in the World Cup.
"I couldn't carry on but I hope it's not too bad. Injuries are not good but there is a little time to go yet until the World Cup."
Ghana will also face Serbian and Australia in the group phase.