The race for a spot in the eighth African Nations Championship (CHAN) remains finely balanced after Nigeria and Ghana played out a goalless draw in the first leg of their qualifying clash at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday.
Ghana’s Black Galaxies dominated the early exchanges, creating several chances, but the Super Eagles’ defense, led by Captain Nduka Junior, held firm. The hosts came close to breaking the deadlock in the 15th minute when Stephen Amankwoo’s powerful strike narrowly missed the target. Nigeria’s best chance of the half came through Sikiru Alimi, whose free-kick just before the break sailed over the crossbar, as both teams engaged in a fiercely contested battle.
The draw marks Nigeria’s best away result against Ghana in CHAN qualifying history. In previous encounters, the Eagles suffered a 2-3 defeat in 2008 and a 0-2 loss in 2022. Both teams now turn their attention to the return leg, set for Saturday at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo. The aggregate winner will secure WAFU B’s representation at CHAN 2025, a tournament exclusive to players in their domestic leagues.
To advance, Nigeria must secure a win in open play. A score draw would favor Ghana due to the away goals rule, while another goalless draw would send the tie into extra time and possibly penalties.
The eighth CHAN tournament is scheduled to take place in Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda from February 1 to 28, 2025. Under the interim leadership of Daniel Ogunmodede and Fidelis Ilechukwu, the home-based Super Eagles are determined to qualify for CHAN for the first time since 2018.
Nigeria’s best CHAN performance came in 2014, finishing third in South Africa, followed by a runner-up finish in 2018, losing to hosts Morocco. A win against Ghana in Uyo would keep alive their quest for a maiden CHAN title.
