Nigeria’s Super Eagles edged Ghana’s Black Stars 2-1 in a thrilling Unity Cup semifinal at London’s Gtech Community Stadium on Wednesday night.
Cyriel Dessers opened the scoring in the 14th minute with a sharp finish set up by S. Ismail. Just five minutes later, Ghana’s Razak Simpson inadvertently scored an own goal, doubling Nigeria’s lead.
Ghana struggled to find their rhythm, failing to register a shot on target in the first half, while pressure mounted with two quick bookings for Kamaradini Mamudu and Salis Abdul Samed in the 24th and 26th minutes.
Ghana’s substitute Brandon Asante-Thomas pulled one back in the 70th minute, but it wasn’t enough to stop Nigeria’s advance to the final.
The Super Eagles will now face Jamaica, who defeated Trinidad and Tobago 3-2 on Tuesday, in the Unity Cup final on Saturday.
Ahead of the match, Ghana coach Otto Addo highlighted the game’s importance: “This is our chance to restore pride, ignite the fans’ passion, and show Africa that the Black Stars remain a formidable force.”
The Unity Cup is a friendly tournament celebrating cultural ties and camaraderie among African nations and the diaspora, held in venues like London to promote unity, diversity, and sporting excellence. This year’s knockout competition draws passionate supporters worldwide, spotlighting talent and goodwill.
