The Super Eagles and Ghana’s Black Galaxies played out a goalless draw in the first leg of their 2025 African Nations Championship CHAN qualifier at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday evening. The match was witnessed by Ghanaian football legend Abedi Pele, who was present in the stands.
Abubakar Adamu showed flashes of brilliance, troubling Ghana’s defence and winning a dangerous free-kick that was not converted. Late in the first half, Nigeria squandered another free-kick opportunity through Imo Obot.
In the second half, Ghana came close with a long-range effort and a subsequent opportunity that was thwarted by a fine save from Ani. The Super Eagles introduced Emmanuel Ogbole, who missed a headed chance to secure a lead for Nigeria.
With neither side able to break the deadlock, the tie will be decided in the second leg, set for December 29, 2024, at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Nigeria.
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Editorial
The goalless draw in Accra highlights the intense rivalry between Nigeria and Ghana, with neither side willing to concede an advantage. Nigeria’s solid defensive structure and composure under pressure were commendable, but the lack of cutting-edge finishing remains a concern.
Coach Daniel Ogunmodede set up the Super Eagles in a 4-3-3 formation, with Ozoemena Ani preferred in goal over Kayode Bankole. Veteran midfielder Rabiu Ali was notably absent from the starting lineup. The Nigerian team displayed disciplined defending, keeping the Black Galaxies’ attack at bay in a cagey first half.
Coach Daniel Ogunmodede’s tactical setup deserves praise, particularly for neutralizing Ghana’s attacking threats. However, the Super Eagles must improve their offensive output in the return leg to capitalize on their home advantage. Players like Abubakar Adamu and Emmanuel Ogbole have shown promise but need to deliver in decisive moments.
As the rivalry moves to Uyo for the second leg, the stakes couldn’t be higher. A place in the CHAN tournament awaits, and the Super Eagles must seize this opportunity to assert dominance and secure qualification.
Did You Know?
- The CHAN tournament is exclusively for players who play in their domestic leagues.
- Nigeria and Ghana share one of the fiercest rivalries in African football, spanning decades of competitive encounters.
- Ozoemena Ani’s performance in goal was a highlight for the Super Eagles, with crucial saves to keep a clean sheet.
- The Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, where the second leg will be played, is one of Nigeria’s premier football venues.
- Ghana’s Abedi Pele, who attended the match, is considered one of Africa’s greatest footballers, having won three African Player of the Year awards.
