Nigeria vs Ghana: Super Eagles’ possible starting XI for Unity Cup opener

Ghana vs Nigeria. Unity Cup 2025. There are football fixtures that raise eyebrows, and then there are those that raise blood pressure. Nigeria vs Ghana falls squarely in the latter category.

A rivalry steeped in pride, history and passion, it’s always more than just a friendly match.

And on Wednesday evening at the Gtech Community Stadium in London, Eric Chelle’s Super Eagles will walk out with one mission: beat Ghana, reach the Unity Cup final, and set up a tasty showdown with Jamaica.

It will be only Chelle’s third game in charge of Nigeria since his January appointment, and while it’s early days, there’s a growing sense of identity taking shape under the Franco-Malian tactician.

His preferred 4-4-2 diamond system, already glimpsed against Rwanda and Zimbabwe in March, is expected to remain his weapon of choice as the Super Eagles face their fiercest rivals under the London lights.

GOALKEEPER: Nwabali stands alone

It’s not just a case of first-choice, it’s also one of only-choice. With Maduka Okoye and Amas Obasogie yet to report to camp, Stanley Nwabali will unsurprisingly retain the gloves.

The Chippa United keeper has grown into the role since his AFCON heroics, and while his distribution still draws scrutiny, his calm presence and shot-stopping instinct could be vital against a fiery Ghanaian frontline.

DEFENCE: Ajayi returns, Ismaila gets the nod

Right-back seems settled: Sadiq Ismaila, fresh off guiding Remo Stars to their historic first NPFL title, is expected to edge out Werder Bremen’s Felix Agu.

Ismaila brings pace, hunger and an increasingly mature defensive IQ. The youngster will be eager to ensure that the absence of Ola Aina and Bright Osayi-Samuel is not heavily felt.

In the heart of defence, Semi Ajayi returns – clubless but trusted – and likely pairs with Igho Ogbu, who is yet to make his debut but impressed Chelle enough in camp to be rated ahead of Rangers lad Ifeanyi Onyebuchi.

Ogbu has quietly developed into one of Slavia Prague’s most reliable defenders in the Czech league and offers composure under pressure.

Left-back? That’s Bruno Onyemaechi’s territory. The Olympiacos man combines tactical awareness with attacking verve.

While Felix Agu could eventually challenge him for that role long-term, for now, Onyemaechi’s shirt is safe.

MIDFIELD: Ndidi anchors, Musa’s new role, Papa Daniel’s wildcard

Wilfred Ndidi, despite arriving off a disappointing personal season with Leicester, is the natural pivot at the base of the diamond. His ball recovery and positional discipline give freedom to those ahead of him.

One of the big tactical questions is in the creative slot often occupied by Alex Iwobi.

With Iwobi unavailable, Chelle may opt for the experienced Ahmed Musa, who has recently redefined his role as a playmaker.

But keep an eye on Papa Daniel. The Niger Tornadoes’ attacking midfielder has four goals in the NPFL and is earning a reputation for late surges and clever passes. He could sneak into the XI.

WINGS: Chukwueze and Simon to fly?

On the flanks, Samuel Chukwueze remains Chelle’s trusted right-side outlet. While his AC Milan form has been inconsistent, his ability to stretch defences and cut in sharply makes him an asset.

Moses Simon, fresh off his best-ever Ligue 1 campaign with Nantes, is the likeliest name on the opposite wing.

However, Chelle may be tempted to re-use the tweak he applied in March – playing Simon alongside the striker. Yet, in a mini-tournament setting, with Ghana’s full-backs offering width, Simon’s work rate and dribbling might be better suited in his natural wide role.

FORWARDS: Dessers to lead the line, Tella to partner

With Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman out, the responsibility to spearhead Nigeria’s attack falls to Cyriel Dessers, the Scottish Premiership’s top scorer this season and scorer of a goal in Nigeria’s win over Ghana last year. His movement and hold-up play fit Chelle’s system well.

Next to him could be the in-form Nathan Tella of Bayer Leverkusen.

Fresh from another brilliant Bundesliga campaign, Tella brings energy, pressing, and clinical finishing – three traits that make him a dream partner in a front two. His intelligence in linking midfield and attack could also help Nigeria’s diamond system thrive.

Predicted XI (4-4-2 Diamond)

• GK: Stanley Nwabali
• RB: Sadiq Ismaila
• CB: Semi Ajayi
• CB: Igho Ogbu
• LB: Bruno Onyemaechi
• DM: Wilfred Ndidi
• LCM: Moses Simon
• RCM: Samuel Chukwueze
• CAM: Ahmed Musa
• ST: Cyriel Dessers
• ST: Nathan Tella

Kick-off is 7:45pm Nigerian time at Brentford’s Gtech Community Stadium.