Victory is sweet, but triumphing over a long-standing rival is even sweeter. Nigeria’s Super Eagles B team has broken their CHAN jinx against Ghana, securing a 3-1 aggregate victory over the Black Galaxies to book their spot at the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN). The historic win has ended a six-year absence from the tournament and serves as a testament to the team’s resilience and determination.
The decisive second-leg match, held at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, was a thrilling spectacle. Nigeria’s home-based Eagles delivered an electrifying first-half performance that stunned their opponents and delighted fans. From the outset, the Eagles displayed dominance, with their attacking prowess and tactical discipline overwhelming Ghana’s Black Galaxies.
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Brief Highlight of the Game
The opening goal came in the 18th minute when captain Nduka Junior delivered a precise long pass that found Ismail Sodiq in a perfect position. Sodiq timed his run impeccably, beating the offside trap before calmly slotting the ball past Ghana’s goalkeeper, Benjamin Asare. The crowd erupted in jubilation, and the Eagles had set the tone for the match.
Just minutes later, Nigeria doubled their lead. Taking advantage of Ghana’s defensive lapse, Nduka Junior found the back of the net, showcasing his versatility and leadership on the pitch. By the 25th minute, the game seemed firmly in Nigeria’s grasp. Saviour Isaac capitalized on a defensive mix-up between Asare and Nurudeen Abdulai to add the third goal. The Eagles’ relentless pressure had paid off, leaving the Black Galaxies reeling.
Despite a second-half consolation goal by Ghana’s Stephen Amankona, the Super Eagles B team maintained control, ensuring their aggregate victory and securing their place at CHAN 2025. This win also breaks a frustrating streak of losses against Ghana, who had previously thwarted Nigeria’s CHAN qualification hopes in 2009 and 2023. The rivalry between the two nations intensified further after Ghana denied Nigeria a spot at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, making this victory even more significant.
Ending a Long Rivalry
For Nigeria, this is more than just a qualification; it is a statement of resilience and redemption. The Super Eagles B team demonstrated their technical superiority and mental toughness, rising to the occasion against a formidable rival. This result ensures that Ghana will miss the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and CHAN 2025, adding to a challenging year for Ghanaian football.
Leadership and Support
The victory has drawn praise from various quarters, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who commended the team’s grit and determination. In his congratulatory message, the President emphasized the team’s embodiment of the “true Nigerian spirit” and promised unwavering support to ensure their success at CHAN 2025.
The National Sports Commission (NSC) also celebrated the team’s success. Chairman Shehu Dikko fulfilled the promise of a ₦10 million reward, recognizing the players’ and coaching staff’s efforts in achieving this milestone. The gesture underscores the nation’s appreciation for the team’s hard-fought victory and commitment to preparing them for the continental stage.
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Looking Ahead
The 2025 African Nations Championship, which exclusively features players competing in African leagues, will be co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda from February 1 to 28, 2025. For the Super Eagles B team, this is an opportunity to make a significant impact on the continental stage.
Nigeria last appeared in CHAN in 2018, where they finished as silver medalists. Now, they have the chance to build on their past performances and aim for ultimate glory. With the hunger, energy, and talent displayed against Ghana, the Super Eagles B team redeemed their past and set the stage for an impactful campaign.
This triumph is more than just a victory. It is a new chapter in Nigeria’s football history, a celebration of resilience, and a promise of greater achievements to come.