2025 Unity Cup: Nigeria roasts Ghana in “Jollof Derby” to reach final

By Monsurah Olatunji

Nigeria booked their place in the final of the Unity Cup with a 2–1 victory over arch-rivals Ghana in a pulsating semi-final clash at the GTech Community Stadium in London on Wednesday.

Dubbed the “Jollof Derby,” the encounter delivered on its billing, reigniting a historic rivalry that spans 75 years.

Goals from Cyriel Dessers and a Ghanaian own goal gave the Super Eagles an early lead before Ghana fought back in the second half to narrow the margin.

Nigeria struck first in the 14th minute when Dessers converted a pinpoint cross from Ismaila Sodiq, finishing neatly past Ghana goalkeeper Benjamin Asare.

Just five minutes later, a Semi Ajayi header deflected off Ghana’s Razak Simpson and into the net to make it 2–0 in favor of the Super Eagles.

Despite the early setback, Ghana regrouped and mounted a spirited second-half challenge.

Substitute Brandon Thomas-Asante halved the deficit in the 70th minute with his first international goal, giving the Black Stars hope of a comeback.

Ghana continued to press in the final stages, testing Nigeria’s defense, but the Super Eagles held firm to seal the win and secure a place in Saturday’s final against Jamaica.

The match offered crucial minutes to several fringe and domestically based Nigerian players, with regular stars such as Victor Osimhen and Alex Iwobi rested for the tournament.

Dessers, in particular, made the most of his opportunity, further strengthening his claim for future call-ups.

The victory also adds to Nigeria’s recent dominance in the rivalry, following a 2–1 friendly win over Ghana in March 2024. While the Black Stars still hold the edge historically in head-to-head matchups, momentum now appears to be shifting in Nigeria’s favor.

The Super Eagles will now turn their focus to Saturday’s final, where they aim to lift the Unity Cup and cap off a strong showing at the invitational tournament.