By Bernard OY

In a fiercely contested Unity Cup semifinal at the Gtech Community Stadium in London, Nigeria edged past Ghana 2-1, securing their place in the final against Jamaica. The match, dubbed the "Jollof Derby", lived up to its billing, delivering high-intensity football and moments of brilliance. 

First-Half Dominance by Nigeria

Nigeria wasted no time asserting their authority, taking the lead inside the opening quarter of an hour. Cyriel Dessers capitalized on a perfectly weighted cross from Ismaila Sodiq, controlling the ball with precision before firing past Ghanaian goalkeeper Benjamin Asare. The Super Eagles doubled their advantage just minutes later when Seyi Ajayi’s header deflected off Razak Simpson for an unfortunate own goal. 

Ghana struggled to contain Nigeria’s fluid attacking play, and the Black Stars were fortunate not to concede a third before halftime, as Wilfred Ndidi saw his effort cleared off the line. 

Ghana’s Second-Half Fightback

Despite trailing 2-0, Ghana emerged from the break with renewed determination. Their persistence paid off in the 70th minute, when substitute Brandon Thomas-Asante netted his first international goal, reducing the deficit. The Black Stars pressed for an equalizer, with Caleb Yirenkyi and Abu Francis coming close, but Nigerian goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali produced a crucial save to deny Ghana a dramatic comeback. 

Nigeria Marches to the Final

With this victory, Nigeria advances to face Jamaica in the final on Saturday, May 31. The Reggae Boyz secured their spot after a thrilling 3-2 win over Trinidad & Tobago Meanwhile, Ghana will battle Trinidad & Tobago in the third-place playoff. 

The Unity Cup, a tournament celebrating Afro-Caribbean football and culture, returned this year after a 21-year hiatus. With Nigeria aiming to defend their title, the final promises to be another electrifying encounter.