2023 Africa Games: Ghana coach Yusif Basigi anticipates intense clash with Nigeria

By Saheed Afolabi

Yusif Basigi, the head coach of Ghana’s U20 women’s team, is gearing up for an intense showdown against Nigeria in the final of the U20 Africa Games in Accra.

After defeating Senegal 3-1 in the semifinals, the Black Princesses secured their spot in the final of the women’s football category.

Basigi acknowledged that the upcoming match against Nigeria will require a different approach, considering the stakes involved. He highlighted the desire of both teams to build on their previous encounters, particularly Ghana’s victory over the Falconets in the last U20 WAFU B competition held in Ghana.

Expecting a tough challenge from Nigeria, Basigi expressed optimism while acknowledging the competitive nature of the game.

“Playing against Nigeria is a different ball game entirely,” Basigi emphasized. “They watched us play and so did we. Nigeria will not like to lose to us for the second time and we will want to consolidate our dominance over them at this level.

“So I know it’s going to be a cracker, it is going to be a very tough game, so at the end of the day, we shall see what will happen.”

In the final clash, the Super Falconets will aim to defend their Africa Games crown against their familiar rivals, Ghana.