Nigeria will take on Jamaica in the Unity Cup final after edging past Ghana 2-1 in a tightly contested semi-final encounter.

Super Eagles head coach Eric Challe had stated before kick-off that the match, alongside next month’s friendly against Russia, would serve as preparation for Nigeria’s remaining World Cup qualifiers. While the result fell in his favour, Challe may have concerns over his side’s second-half display, as a dominant opening gave way to late pressure from a spirited Ghanaian team.

With key players including Alex Iwobi, Ola Aina, Ademola Lookman, and Victor Osimhen rested, the match presented a valuable opportunity for domestic-based players and forward Cyriel Dessers.

Dessers capitalised on the chance, opening the scoring inside the first 15 minutes. The goal stemmed from excellent work by Ismaila Sodiq, who sprinted down the right flank and delivered a pinpoint cross. Dessers controlled it neatly before finishing with precision to give Nigeria the lead.

Moments later, the advantage was doubled when Seyi Ajayi’s header deflected off Ghanaian defender Razak Simpson and into the net for an own goal. Nigeria nearly extended their lead before half-time, but Benjamin Asare produced a superb save to deny Wilfred Ndidi, and a subsequent goal-line clearance preserved Ghana’s hopes.

Ghana responded with resilience in the second half, narrowing the deficit through Brandon Thomas-Asante, who scored his first international goal with 20 minutes remaining. Caleb Yirenkyi came close to marking his debut with an equaliser, while Abu Francis was denied by a brilliant stop from Stanley Nwabali late on.

Nigeria ultimately held firm to secure the win, earning a place in Saturday’s final against Jamaica. The Reggae Boyz, coached by Steve McClaren, advanced after a dramatic 3-2 victory over Trinidad and Tobago, with Richard King converting a stoppage-time penalty to clinch the win.

Faridah Abdulkadiri

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