Nigeria’s Super Eagles secured a 2-1 victory over their fierce rivals Ghana in a thrilling Unity Cup semi-final at the GTech Community Stadium on Wednesday evening.
Goals from Cyriel Dessers and an own goal by Ghana’s Razak Simpson earned Nigeria a place in Saturday’s final against Jamaica.
The match was far from friendly, with the historic rivalry between the two West African powerhouses reignited before a packed and lively crowd of diaspora fans in West London.
Early goals set the tone
Cyriel Dessers gave Nigeria an ideal start in the 14th minute, expertly controlling a cross before firing a low shot past Ghanaian goalkeeper Danlad Ibrahim.
This was his second goal against the Black Stars, having also scored in a 2024 friendly between the two nations.
Also Read: Victor Osimhen Seals Historic Turkish Cup Win for Galatasaray
Five minutes later, Nigeria extended their lead in somewhat fortunate circumstances. A dangerous free kick into the box saw Ghanaian defender Razak Simpson misjudge his header and divert the ball into his own net, giving the Super Eagles a comfortable 2-0 advantage.
Struggling to find their rhythm in the first half, Ghana’s response after the interval was more determined. Their efforts were rewarded in the 70th minute when Brandon Thomas-Asante calmly finished a low cross to pull a goal back for the Black Stars.
Nigeria thought they had restored their two-goal lead soon after, but Kelechi Iheanacho’s strike was disallowed for offside. As Ghana pushed for an equaliser, goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali made a crucial save, notably denying Abu Francis in the 87th minute.
With thousands of fans from the Nigerian and Ghanaian diaspora in attendance, the Unity Cup also served as a celebration of shared heritage and cultural pride.
Nigeria now prepare to face Jamaica in the final on Saturday, while Ghana will take on Trinidad and Tobago in the third-place play-off.
