Unity Cup 2025: Ghana’s Black Stars Fall 1-2 to Nigeria’s Super Eagles in Unity Cup Semifinal Clash
In a heated West African rivalry match that drew thousands of fans to the Gtech Community Stadium in London, the Ghana Black Stars fell 2-1 to the Super Eagles of Nigeria in the semifinals of the 2025 Unity Cup. The match, held on Wednesday, May 28, was a critical fixture in the Unity Cup series and another fierce edition of the legendary “Jollof Derby.”
The Super Eagles wasted no time asserting their dominance. In the 14th minute, forward Cyriel Dessers opened the scoring, calmly slotting home a pinpoint cross from debutant Sodiq Ismail. Just five minutes later, Nigeria doubled their lead as a header from Seyi Ajayi deflected off Ghana’s Razak Simpson, resulting in an unfortunate own goal that gave Nigeria a comfortable 2-0 advantage heading into the break.
Ghana, noticeably short-handed without key players like Mohammed Kudus, Thomas Partey, and Antoine Semenyo, struggled to find fluidity and control in the first half. The absence of experience in the midfield and defense was apparent as the Super Eagles capitalized on early defensive lapses.
Head coach Otto Addo’s halftime adjustments began to pay off as Ghana came out of the tunnel with renewed urgency. In the 70th minute, Brandon Thomas-Asante—making his international debut—scored his first goal for the Black Stars after receiving a well-placed assist from Ebenezer Annan. His strike reignited the Ghanaian attack and gave fans hope for a dramatic comeback.
Ghana pushed for an equalizer in the dying minutes, with substitute Abu Francis testing Nigerian goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali with a powerful effort in stoppage time. However, Nwabali’s crucial save kept Nigeria ahead, sealing their place in the Unity Cup final.
Nigeria will face Jamaica in the final of the Unity Cup after the Caribbean side overcame Trinidad and Tobago in the other semifinal. Ghana’s campaign, though cut short, showed flashes of promise—particularly from the younger talents introduced in the second half.
The loss will prompt reflection and tactical reevaluation as the Black Stars prepare for upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers. Despite the result, the fighting spirit and debut performances offer a glimmer of optimism for Ghana’s footballing future.
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