The quest to qualify for the 2023 African Nations Championship (CHAN) in Algeria just got tougher for the Super Eagles B team of Nigeria after a shock 2-0 defeat against the Black Galaxies of Ghana in their first leg encounter, at the Cape Coast Stadium on Sunday.
Nigeria started well in the match and created a few chances in the first half, but couldn’t breakdown the resilient defence of the Ghanaians.
In the second half, the Black Galaxies came out the more purposeful side and put the Nigerians under enormous pressure. Ghana were rewarded for their efforts five minutes into the second half as Afriyie Barnieh converted from the penalty spot, sending goalkeeper Adewale Adeyinka to the wrong spot.
Ghana then doubled its lead in the 86th minute when Seidu Suraj pounced on a rebound to fire home from close range as Adewale Adeyinka failed to hold firm to a cross by Daniel Abagna.
Nigeria had two late chances to reduce the deficit, but fell short as the match finished 2-0 in favour of the Black Galaxies of Ghana.
Nigeria must now score three unanswered goals in the second leg at the Moshood Abiola Stadium in Abuja for a chance to reach the CHAN tournament.
FT Ghana 2-0 Nigeria. Disappointing result but much to play for in the return leg on Thursday at the MKO Abiola Stadium, Abuja. #SoarSuperEagles #GHANGA #TotalEnergiesChanQ pic.twitter.com/HGaq4KCwdm
— 🇳🇬 Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) August 28, 2022
