March 22, (THEWILL)- Nigeria claimed a narrow 2-1 victory over Ghana, in a pulsating international friendly played in Marrakesh, Morocco, on Friday. This marked the Super Eagles’ first outing since their heartbreaking Africa Cup of Nations final defeat to Ivory Coast in February.
Interim manager Finidi George, a Nigerian legend, saw his side take the lead through a Cyriel Dessers penalty as Ghana were reduced to 10 men, following Jerome Opoku’s dismissal in the second half. Substitute Ademola Lookman added a second for Nigeria late on, maintaining his impressive international goalscoring form.
Despite the numerical disadvantage, Ghana displayed commendable fighting spirit under returning coach Otto Addo. Antoine Semenyo missed several chances, including a close-range header, but eventually forced a penalty that Crystal Palace’s Jordan Ayew converted deep into stoppage time.
Nigeria goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali held firm in the dying seconds to secure victory for the Super Eagles. Both teams will continue their preparations for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers with friendlies on Tuesday evening. Nigeria face Mali, while Ghana take on Uganda, with both matches taking place in Marrakesh.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
