May 29, (THEWILL) – Nigeria defeated Ghana 2-1 in Tuesday’s Unity Cup semi-final, booking their place in Saturday’s final against Jamaica. The Super Eagles took control early through Cyriel Dessers’ opener and an own goal from Razak Simpson, but faced a determined second-half fightback from their West African rivals.
Rangers striker Dessers capitalised on a well-timed cross from Ismaila Sodiq to break the deadlock within the opening quarter-hour. The lead doubled when Seyi Ajayi’s header deflected off Simpson for an unfortunate own goal, giving Nigeria a comfortable advantage at the interval.
Ghana mounted a spirited comeback after the break, with substitute Brandon Thomas-Asante reducing the deficit with his maiden international goal 20 minutes from time. The Black Stars continued pressing for an equaliser, with debutant Caleb Yirenkyi and Abu Francis both coming close, but goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali preserved Nigeria’s advantage.
Super Eagles head coach Eric Challe utilised the fixture as preparation for upcoming World Cup qualifiers, resting key players including Victor Osimhen, Alex Iwobi, and Ademola Lookman. The victory sets up a final meeting with Jamaica, who defeated Trinidad and Tobago 3-2 in their semi-final through Richard King’s stoppage-time penalty.
Nigeria will face Steve McClaren’s Jamaica side on Saturday, with both teams seeking Unity Cup glory. The Super Eagles showed their squad depth despite missing several first-choice players, while Ghana’s young team showed promise despite the defeat in what proved an entertaining encounter.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
