Nigeria’s Super Eagles edged past old rivals Ghana with a 2-1 victory at the Gtech Community Stadium in London to secure a place in the Unity Cup final, where they will face Jamaica on Saturday.
Nigeria started on the front foot, dominating the early exchanges. The breakthrough came in the 14th minute when Cyriel Dessers finished off a precise cross from Sodiq Ismail, putting the Super Eagles ahead. Just five minutes later, Nigeria doubled its lead. A dangerous free kick from Samuel Chukwueze found Semi Ajayi, whose header deflected off Ghana’s Razak Simpson and ended up in the net.
Ghana struggled to respond in the first half. They failed to register a shot on target and picked up two quick yellow cards for Kamaradini Mamudu and Salis Abdul Samed. Nigeria created further chances but could not extend their lead before the break.
The Black Stars improved after halftime, pushing Nigeria back and creating pressure. Their persistence paid off in the 70th minute when substitute Brandon Thomas-Asante pulled a goal back. Setting up a tense finish. However, despite late pressure from Ghana, Nigeria’s defence held firm to secure the win.
The Unity Cup was revived after a 21-year hiatus. It marks a celebration of Afro-Caribbean culture and unity. Hosted in London, it brings together nations with deep historical and cultural ties, including Nigeria, Ghana, Jamaica, and Trinidad & Tobago. The event aims to foster camaraderie and showcase talent from both Africa and the diaspora.
Nigeria, the defending champions from the 2004 edition, entered this year’s tournament as the highest-ranked team. Now, they will face Jamaica, which advanced to the final after a 3-2 win over Trinidad & Tobago. The Super Eagles enter as favourites based on their FIFA ranking and recent performances. But Jamaica’s attacking strength and motivation for redemption, having finished third in the last edition, promise a competitive final.
With both teams boasting strong support in London, Saturday’s final is set to be a closely contested match. Nigeria will look to retain their title, while Jamaica aims to claim their first Unity Cup crown.