Unity Cup Semi-Final: Super Eagles Player Ratings as Nigeria Defeats Ghana 2-1

Unity Cup Semi-Final: Super Eagles Player Ratings as Nigeria Defeats Ghana 2-1

By Niyi Busari 

Nigeria’s Super Eagles secured a place in the Unity Cup final with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over regional rivals Ghana. The win came courtesy of an own goal by Ghana's Razaq Simpson and a clinical finish by returning striker Cyriel Dessers. Despite a late consolation goal by Brandon Thomas-Asante, Nigeria held on for a deserved win.

Here is a breakdown of how each Super Eagles player performed:

Starting XI

Stanley Nwabali – 5

A shaky outing for the goalkeeper, who nearly gifted Ghana a goal with a misplaced pass. Had little chance of stopping the late goal.

Sodiq Ismail – 7

The right-back lived up to his billing with an energetic performance, contributing an assist and posing a consistent attacking threat.

Igoh Ogbu – 5

Solid for most of the match but lost concentration late on, allowing Thomas-Asante to score unmarked.

Semi Ajayi – 7

Impressive aerial presence and was instrumental in forcing the own goal that doubled Nigeria’s lead.

Bruno Onyemaechi – 6

Quiet going forward, but delivered a steady defensive display to keep Ghana’s right flank in check.

Franck Onyeka – 6

A reliable presence in midfield, regularly broke up Ghanaian plays and contributed to Nigeria’s midfield dominance.

Wilfred Ndidi – 6

Led by example as captain. His leadership and willingness to put his body on the line were evident throughout the match.

Papa Daniel Mustapha – 6

Brought composure and control to the midfield, maintaining shape and stability without being flashy.

Samuel Chukwueze – 7

Delivered the cross that led to Nigeria’s second goal and posed a consistent threat during his 62 minutes on the pitch.

Sikiru Alimi – 6

Showed promise on his debut, linking well with Dessers and creating chances, though he didn’t get on the scoresheet.

Cyriel Dessers – 8

Justified his recall with a smart finish to open the scoring and remained a constant menace to the Ghanaian defense.

Substitutes

Kelechi Iheanacho – 6

Unlucky to have a goal disallowed. Played a crucial role in what should have been Dessers’ second, only for a foul to go unpunished.

Moses Simon – 5

Struggled to influence the game after coming on, still adjusting to Eric Chelle’s system.

Ahmed Musa – 6

Used his experience well in the closing stages, helping manage the tempo and run down the clock.

Emmanuel Onyebuchi – N/A

Not enough time on the pitch to warrant a rating.

Collins Chinemerem Ugwueze – N/A

Introduced too late to have any significant impact.