Ghana head coach Otto Addo has admitted that Nigeria’s superior maturity and cohesion proved decisive in his side’s 2-1 defeat to the Super Eagles in the Unity Cup semi-final, Footynaija.com reports.
In a lively contest at the Gtech Community Stadium, Nigeria struck first through Rangers forward Cyriel Dessers before a Razak Simpson own goal doubled their advantage just before half-time.
Although Ghana responded in the second half with a goal from West Bromwich Albion striker Brandon Thomas-Asante, it wasn’t enough to salvage a result.
Fullltime: Super Eagles of Nigeria 2 VS 1 Ghana – Goals & Highlight – 2025 UNITY CUP
⚽️ Cyril Dessers 15’
⚽️ OG – Razak Simpson 21’
⚽️ Ebenezer Annan 70’Nigeria will now face Jamaica on Saturday the 31st of may in the final of the 2025 UNITY Cup
GFA pic.twitter.com/O23xxZmLf6
— Dr. Victor Ademola (@AdemolaVictorTv) May 28, 2025
Reflecting on the match, Addo pointed to the lack of chemistry among his players, noting how the Super Eagles’ familiarity and tempo control overwhelmed his youthful Ghanaian side.
“Like I said, it’s not always easy, especially when we have players that haven’t often played together,” Addo told reporters after the match, as quoted by Ghanasoccernet.
“I think Nigeria had a more mature team that could adapt faster. We had problems getting into the duels to press well, but also to defend well.”
Despite the defeat, the Black Stars showed moments of promise in the second half, and Addo will take encouragement from his team’s improved performance after the break.
The result sees Nigeria book a place in the Unity Cup final, where they will face Jamaica. Ghana, meanwhile, will take on Trinidad and Tobago in the third-place playoff as they look to end the tournament on a positive note.