• Metascholar News Portal
• Sports
• December 29, 2024
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• 2 minutes Read

Nigeria Defeats Ghana to Secure CHAN Qualification

Ghana’s Black Galaxies suffered a disappointing end to their 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualification campaign, falling 3-1 to Nigeria’s Super Eagles B in Uyo on Saturday. After a goalless first-leg draw in Accra, the return leg promised high stakes but quickly turned into a nightmare for Ghana. Nigeria opened the scoring in the 19th minute when Ismaila Sodiq capitalized on a long pass that exposed Ghana’s defense. His well-timed run and finish, despite a touch from goalkeeper Benjamin Asare, gave the hosts a 1-0 lead. Three minutes later, chaos in Ghana’s penalty box allowed Nduka Junior to tap in from close range, doubling Nigeria’s advantage. The Black Galaxies were dealt another blow when Saviour Godwin dispossessed Nurudeen Abdulai in the 25th minute, skillfully rounding Asare and netting the third goal, completing a stunning nine-minute onslaught. Despite moments of promise, including a close chance where the ball appeared to cross the line but was not awarded due to the absence of goal-line technology or VAR, Ghana failed to recover. The visitors managed a consolation goal in the second half, but it was too little, too late to overturn the deficit. Nigeria’s clinical display secured their spot at CHAN 2025, while Ghana missed out on continuing their momentum after reaching the quarterfinals in the previous edition. The defeat highlights the challenges Ghana faces in rebuilding their squad and improving defensive resilience in future tournaments. This setback will serve as a learning experience for the Black Galaxies as they aim to bounce back stronger in upcoming competitions.