Nigeria’s Super Eagles clinched a 2-1 victory over Ghana’s Black Stars in the Unity Cup semifinal on May 28, 2025, at the GTech Community Stadium in Brentford, London, securing their place in the final against Jamaica.
The match, a pulsating West African showdown, highlighted Nigeria’s attacking prowess and defensive grit, while Ghana mounted a spirited but ultimately unsuccessful comeback.
The Super Eagles struck early, with Cyriel Dessers, the Rangers striker, opening the scoring in the 14th minute. Dessers latched onto a precise assist from Sodiq Ismaila, who surged down the right flank and delivered a low cross that Dessers finished with composure.
Nigeria doubled their lead in the 19th minute when Ghanaian defender Razak Simpson inadvertently scored an own goal under pressure from a well-executed Nigerian corner. The set-piece, orchestrated by Nigeria’s midfield, exposed Ghana’s defensive vulnerabilities, with Simpson’s attempted clearance finding the back of his own net.
Ghana regrouped in the second half, showing resilience as they pushed for a way back into the game. Their efforts were rewarded in the 70th minute when Coventry City forward Brandon Thomas-Asante scored a fine goal, capitalizing on a well-timed through ball to fire past Nigeria’s goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali.
The strike ignited Ghana’s hopes, and they piled on the pressure in the closing stages, creating several chances to equalize.
However, Nigeria’s defense, anchored by Igoh Ogbu and Semi Ajayi, with Nwabali making critical saves, held firm to secure the 2-1 win despite Ghana’s late onslaught.
The match underscored the intense rivalry between Nigeria and Ghana, with both teams showcasing moments of quality. Nigeria’s attack, led by Dessers and supported by players like Samuel Chukwueze, kept Ghana’s defense on edge, while Ghana’s midfield, despite missing key players, worked tirelessly in attempt to gain control.
Nigeria’s tactical discipline, under the guidance of coach Eric Chelle, was pivotal, as they balanced attacking intent with a robust defensive structure.
Nigeria now advances to the Unity Cup final, where they will face Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz on May 31, 2025, at the GTech Community Stadium.
Jamaica, who defeated Trinidad & Tobago 3-1 in their semifinal, will bring pace and flair, with players like Palmer and leading their charge.
Ghana, meanwhile, will face Trinidad & Tobago in the third-place playoff, aiming to end their tournament on a positive note.
The Unity Cup, revived in 2025 after a 21-year hiatus, celebrates Afro-Caribbean culture through football, uniting nations from Africa and the Caribbean in a vibrant tournament.
Nigeria, with their storied footballing pedigree and three Africa Cup of Nations titles, are favored to claim the Unity Cup, but Jamaica’s dynamic squad promises a thrilling final.
This victory provides Nigeria with momentum as they prepare for their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, with players like Dessers, Nwabali, and Chukwueze proving their international caliber.
Ghana, despite the defeat, displayed resilience and will look to build on their performance ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in September.
The Unity Cup has not only rekindled a historic tournament but also fostered cultural unity, with the upcoming final set to be a showcase of skill, passion, and Afro-Caribbean pride.
