The Super Eagles of Nigeria secured a 2-1 victory over arch-rivals Ghana on Wednesday night in London to book their place in the final of the 2025 Unity Cup, an invitational tournament aimed at promoting African and Caribbean unity through sport.
In what was dubbed the latest edition of the fierce “Jollof Derby”, a nod to the long-standing friendly rivalry between Nigeria and Ghana — the match delivered thrills, drama, and national pride. Nigeria struck early and dominated the first half, capitalizing on defensive lapses by the Black Stars to secure the win.
Striker Cyriel Dessers opened the scoring in the 14th minute, finishing clinically after connecting with a precise cross from Sodiq Ismail. Just five minutes later, the Super Eagles doubled their lead when Ghanaian defender Razak Simpson inadvertently turned the ball into his own net under pressure, handing Nigeria a comfortable cushion.
Ghana struggled to find their rhythm in the opening 45 minutes, ending the first half without registering a single shot on target. However, the Black Stars improved in the second half and found a lifeline through substitute Brandon Asante-Thomas, who netted a well-taken goal in the 70th minute to reduce the deficit.
Despite Ghana’s late resurgence, Nigeria held on for the win and claimed bragging rights in the high-stakes encounter between the two West African giants.
With this victory, Nigeria advances to the Unity Cup final where they will face Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz, who edged Trinidad and Tobago 3-2 in their own semi-final clash on Tuesday. The final is set to take place on Saturday and promises to be another exciting contest between two culturally rich footballing nations.
Ft in London #TheUnityCup #SoarSuperEagles pic.twitter.com/3DjcjX7CqR
— 🇳🇬 Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) May 28, 2025
