Finidi George today won his first game in temporary charge of the Super Eagles as they beat arch-rivals Ghana 2-1 in another instalment of the Jollof Derby.
Cyriel Dessers opened scoring in the 37 minute through a penalty kick after Kelechi Iheanacho’s shot was handled inside the box by a Ghanaian player, before substitute Ademola Lookman made the game safe for Nigeria in the 84th minute.
Lookman’s goal was a superb effort with the lively Alex Iwobi providing the assist.
Ghana pulled a goal back in additional time from the penalty spot through captain Jordan Ayew.
This was after Bright Osayi-Samuel fouled Antoine Semenyo inside the box on his way to goal.
From the 56th minute, Ghana were forced to play a man short after Opoku was sent off.
Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali pulled off a couple of saves particularly in the second half as the Black Stars chased the game.
The Eagles led by Finidi played a decent direct football, while Ghana under new coach Otto Addo maintained their passing game.
Both teams were weakened by the absence of their top stars – Victor Osimhen for Nigeria, while Ghana were without Mohammed Kudus and Thomas Partey.
Finidi caused a huge stir when he dropped 2023 AFCON stars Ademola Lookman and Moses Simon to the bench and started Tanzania-based defender Benjamin Tanimu for his full international debut.
Tanimu acquitted himself fairly, but the pace of the game will force him out late on.
On Tuesday, Nigeria will play a second friendly against Mali also at the same Grande Stade de Marrakesh in Morocco.
Super Eagles Starting XI vs Ghana: Nwabali – Onyemaechi (Collins 85), Tanimu (lookman 79), Semi Ajayi, Chidozie Awaziem – Wilfred Ndidi (captain) (Raphael Onyedika 72), Frank Onyeka, Osayi, Iwobi – Iheanacho, Dessers (Moses Simon 72)
