Home-Based Super Eagles Soar Over Black Galaxies to Secure CHAN 2025 Spot
The rivalry between Nigeria and Ghana took center stage once again as the home-based Super Eagles defeated Ghana’s Black Galaxies 3-1 to book their place in the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN).
Following a tense goalless draw in the first leg at the Accra Sports Stadium, the Eagles delivered a dominant performance in the return leg at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, on Saturday, December 28, 2024.
Lightning Start in Uyo
Nigeria set the tone early, netting three goals in a blistering nine-minute spell during the first half. Sodiq Ismail opened the scoring in the 19th minute, sparking celebrations among the home crowd. Just three minutes later, Nduka Junior doubled the lead with a composed finish. Before Ghana could regroup, Saviour Isaac struck in the 26th minute, putting Nigeria in firm control.
Despite the early onslaught, Ghana responded with a consolation goal in the 73rd minute, courtesy of Stephen Amenkona, but it wasn’t enough to overturn the deficit. The Super Eagles held on to win 3-1 on aggregate and seal their qualification for CHAN 2025.
Ghana’s Ambitious Pre-Match Intentions
Ahead of the match, Black Galaxies Head Coach Didi Dramani expressed confidence in his team’s ability to win in Uyo.
“We created far more chances and were unlucky not to score. No need crying over spilt milk,” Dramani said during a pre-match press conference in Uyo.
“Tomorrow is an opportunity to get the goals and qualify for the CHAN. It is not going to be easy as there is never any clash between Nigeria and Ghana that can be easy.
“The Super Eagles team is a good one, and we have to take our game to another level. We will play an attacking game.
“Football is about scoring; even when you’re consciously soaking up pressure, you’re still looking to go on the counter and score. Our objective is to qualify for the final tournament.”
However, Nigeria’s early dominance ultimately dashed Ghana’s hopes, leaving the Black Galaxies to reflect on what might have been.
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A Fierce Rivalry Continues
The victory marks another chapter in the storied rivalry between the two West African powerhouses, often referred to as the “Jollof Derby.”
Only a week earlier, Ghana’s Black Maidens had edged Nigeria’s Flamingos to claim the WAFU Zone B U17 Girls Championship title, adding extra spice to this encounter.
The Super Eagles’ triumph in Uyo serves as a swift and emphatic response to that defeat, keeping the competitive fire between the nations alive.
Eyes on CHAN 2025
With this result, Nigeria’s home-based squad can now focus on preparations for the CHAN tournament, which exclusively features players who play in their domestic leagues. Daniel Ogunmodede, the stand-in Head Coach of the Super Eagles team B will be tasked with refining his team’s performance ahead of the continental showdown.
As the celebrations in Uyo continue, Nigerian fans will hope that this victory is a sign of greater things to come—not only at CHAN but also in the upcoming 2025 AFCON qualifiers.
Stay tuned to CitySports for more updates, match reports, and exclusive interviews as Nigeria continues its journey toward continental glory!
