THE Super Eagles of Nigeria won the Unity Cup tournament today by defeating Jamaica 5-4 on penalties in the final at Brentford’s Gtech Community Stadium in London, England.
The match went straight to penalties after regulation time ended 2-2, and the Super Eagles converted all their five attempts while Jamaica missed their fourth kick.
The Super Eagles led twice in open play but were pegged back each time by the lively Reggae Boyz.
Moses Simon and Samuel Chukwueze struck for Eric Chelle’s side but Kaheem Dixon and Jon Russell restored parity for the team coached by former England manager Steve McLaren.
The Super Eagles, who defeated Ghana 2-1 in the semi-final of the four-nation tournament on Wednesday, got themselves in front early on today when Simon turned in a fine cross from Cyriel Dessers in the ninth minute.
Jamaica were back level just three minutes later as Dixon touched home from close range following a low cross.
AC Milan star Chukwueze re-established Nigeria’s lead six minutes into the second half, but the Jamaicans would not just go away.
The Reggae Boyz danced their way back into reckoning just past the hour mark with another fine piece of wide play as another delivery into the Super Eagles box was met by Russell.
During the shootout, Kelechi Iheanacho, Simon, Tolu Arokodare, Bruno Onyemaechi and debutant Chrisantus Uche were all perfect from the penalty spot for the Super Eagles.
The Super Eagles remain the only team to ever win the Unity Cup, having also claimed the only other edition held in 2004.