Unity Cup: Five observations from Super Eagles' 2-1 victory over Ghana's Black Stars

Nigeria has booked a place in the final of the Unity Cup tournament in London after a 2-1 victory over Ghana at the Gtech Community Stadium. 

Cyriel Dessers opened the scoring for the Super Eagles, before a Razaq Simpson own goal extended Nigeria’s lead.

Meanwhile, Brandon Thomas-Asante later pulled one back for the Black Stars, but it wasn’t enough to deny Nigeria the win. 

Allnigeriasoccer.com presents five observations from the victory.

Eric Chelle Hands Debut to Five Players

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle handed international debuts to five players as Nigeria secured a comfortable win over Ghana at the Gtech Community Stadium in London during the Unity Cup.

The Malian tactician fielded a balanced lineup, blending both home-based and foreign-based talents. Among those earning their first senior caps were Papa Mustapha Daniel, Igoh Ogbu, and Remo Stars forward Sikiru Alimi.

In the second half, Emmanuel Ifeanyi Onyebuchi and Collins Chinemerem Ugwueze were introduced for their senior debuts, coming on as substitutes for Semi Ajayi and Frank Onyeka respectively.

Dessers Maintains Scoring Form Against Ghana

Cyriel Dessers marked his return to the national team with a goal, having missed Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup qualifying fixtures against Rwanda in Kigali and Zimbabwe in Uyo back in March.

With Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman absent, the Rangers striker was trusted to lead the Super Eagles attack—and he delivered.

Dessers opened the scoring by calmly finishing a precise cross from Sodiq Ismaila, beating Ghanaian goalkeeper Benjamin Asare from close range.

The goal marked Dessers' third for Nigeria in seven international appearances—two of which have now come against Ghana.

Christopher Bonsu Baah Shines on Black Stars Debut

Genk forward Christopher Bonsu Baah made a memorable debut for the Black Stars, dazzling fans with his skillful and direct style of play as he consistently troubled the Nigerian defense.

The 20-year-old lined up in attack alongside experienced forward Jordan Ayew, but it was Bonsu who stole the spotlight, creating multiple chances and energizing Ghana’s frontline with his flair and creativity.

He was eventually substituted late in the game, making way for fellow debutant Mohammed Gadafi Fuseini.

Improved second-half display from Ghana

After a shaky and error-filled first half, Ghana came out stronger in the second half and dominated proceedings, eventually pulling a goal back with about 15 minutes left on the clock.

The Black Stars controlled possession, created several chances, and put the Nigerian defense under constant pressure in their search for an equalizer.

Their attacking intent forced Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali into a number of crucial saves to preserve Nigeria’s lead and ensure victory.

Stanley Nwabali Stands Tall with Crucial Saves

Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali delivered a standout performance, making a series of brilliant saves to help Nigeria secure a 2-1 win over Ghana at the Gtech Stadium.

Relatively untested in the first half, Nwabali was called into action multiple times after the break as Ghana mounted intense pressure in search of an equalizer.

His sharp reflexes and composure between the posts proved vital in preserving Nigeria’s lead and ultimately sealing the victory.

Adeyemi Adewale

Photo Credit: Ghana FA

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