Unity Cup: Nigeria Defeat Ghana to Reach Final
Nigeria booked their place in the final of the Unity Cup after a 2-1 victory over Ghana in a thrilling semi-final clash held at the Gtech Community Stadium, home of Brentford FC, on Wednesday night.
The Super Eagles got off to a flying start when Remo Stars right-back Sodiq Ismail delivered a delightful cross into the box, which Cyriel Dessers controlled brilliantly before slotting home in the 14th minute. It was a moment of redemption for Dessers, who marked his return to the national team with a composed finish – his first appearance since scoring against Ghana in a friendly in 2024.
Nigeria doubled their lead just five minutes later. A well-taken free-kick by Samuel Chukwueze found the head of defender Semi Ajayi, whose effort deflected off Ghana debutant Rasaq Simpson and into the net, leaving the Ghanaian goalkeeper stranded. The Super Eagles went into the break with a comfortable 2-0 lead.
Ghana responded in the second half and managed to pull one back in the 70th minute through Brandon Thomas-Asante, but it was not enough to stop Nigeria from securing a hard-fought win and advancing to the final.
The highly anticipated fixture once again reignited one of Africa’s fiercest football rivalries, providing an exciting test for both teams ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Nigeria will face Jamaica in the Unity Cup final on Saturday, 31st May, at the same venue. Jamaica defeated Trinidad & Tobago 3-2 in the first semi-final on Tuesday.
