Cyriel Dessers and a Razak Simpson own goal handed Nigeria a 2-1 win over Ghana in the Unity Cup semifinal at the Gtech Community Stadium on Wednesday night.
Dessers broke the deadlock in the 14th minute, finishing calmly after good work from S. Ismail. Just five minutes later, Nigeria doubled their lead when Simpson inadvertently put the ball past his own goalkeeper.
Ghana, despite a strong pre-match rallying cry from coach Otto Addo, failed to register a single shot on target in the first half.
Bookings for Kamaradini Mamudu and Salis Abdul Samed in the space of two minutes underscored their frustration.
The Black Stars improved after the break and were rewarded in the 70th minute when substitute Brandon Asante-Thomas fired home to reduce the deficit.
But Nigeria held firm to reach Saturday’s final against Jamaica, who beat Trinidad and Tobago 3-2.
The Unity Cup, a friendly competition celebrating unity among African and diaspora nations, continues to highlight both footballing talent and cultural pride.
