Super Eagles Defeat Ghana to Reach Unity Cup Final Against Jamaica

By: Gyang Dakwo

Nigeria’s Super Eagles are through to the final of the Unity Cup after a 2-1 victory over Ghana in a thrilling semi-final match. The win sets up an exciting showdown with Jamaica, who edged Trinidad and Tobago in a dramatic five-goal contest.

Head coach Eric Challe made it clear before kick-off that he wanted to use this game and next month’s friendly against Russia to prepare his team for their remaining World Cup qualifiers. Despite resting several big names including Victor Osimhen, Alex Iwobi, Ola Aina, and Ademola Lookman, Nigeria showed their depth and determination.

Cyriel Dessers, given a rare start at the international level, opened the scoring in the first 15 minutes. His goal came after excellent work from Ismaila Sodiq, who sprinted down the right wing and delivered a perfect cross. Dessers controlled the ball smartly before slotting it into the net to give Nigeria the lead.

The Super Eagles doubled their advantage shortly after when a header from Seyi Ajayi deflected off Ghana’s Razak Simpson for an unfortunate own goal. Nigeria came close to extending the lead before halftime, but Ghana’s goalkeeper Benjamin Asare made a brilliant save, and Wilfred Ndidi was denied by a clearance off the line.

In the second half, Ghana came out stronger and showed great fighting spirit. Substitute Brandon Thomas-Asante pulled one back with his first international goal, reducing the deficit with 20 minutes to play. Caleb Yirenkyi, making his debut for Ghana, came close to scoring, and Abu Francis nearly equalised late on, but Stanley Nwabali’s sharp save kept Nigeria in front.

It was a tense finish, but Nigeria sealed the win and booked their place in the final.

Their opponents, Jamaica, are full of confidence after a 3-2 win over Trinidad and Tobago. The Reggae Boyz, coached by Steve McClaren, won thanks to a last-minute penalty from Richard King in a dramatic ending to Tuesday’s match.