Unity Cup 2025: Nigeria and Ghana Set for Epic 'Jollof Derby' Showdown in London
The stage is set for a thrilling encounter as Nigeria's Super Eagles face off against Ghana's Black Stars in the semi-finals of the 2025 Unity Cup. Scheduled for today, Wednesday, 28th May 2025, at 19:45 BST, the match will take place at Brentford FC's Gtech Community Stadium in London. This fixture rekindles one of Africa's most storied football rivalries, often referred to as the "Jollof Derby," highlighting the deep-rooted competition between these two West African nations.
With a history spanning over seven decades, Nigeria and Ghana have clashed 56 times on the football field. Ghana leads the head-to-head with 25 victories, while Nigeria has secured 13 wins, and 18 matches have ended in draws. Their last encounter saw Nigeria triumph with a 2-1 victory in March 2024. The Unity Cup, returning after a 21-year hiatus, provides both teams an opportunity to assert dominance and claim bragging rights.
🇳🇬 Super Eagles' Squad Dynamics
Nigeria enters the tournament with a blend of experience and emerging talent. While key players like Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman are absent, the squad boasts seasoned professionals such as Ahmed Musa, Moses Simon, Samuel Chukwueze, Kelechi Iheanacho, and Cyriel Dessers. The midfield is anchored by Wilfred Ndidi and Frank Onyeka, providing stability and creativity. In goal, Stanley Nwabali is expected to start, bringing his recent form to the international stage.
🇬🇭 Black Stars' Fresh Faces
Ghana's head coach, Otto Addo, has introduced new talents to the squad, aiming to rejuvenate the team's dynamics. Notably, Joseph Anang, a goalkeeper from St Patrick's Athletic, has received his first call-up, reflecting Addo's commitment to integrating fresh talent. The squad also includes home-based players like Benjamin Asare, Razak Simpson, Kamaradini Mamudu, and Kwame Opoku, showcasing the depth of Ghana's domestic league.
Beyond the pursuit of the Unity Cup title, this match holds significant cultural and emotional weight. The "Jollof Derby" symbolizes more than just football; it's a celebration of shared histories, cultures, and the spirited rivalry that unites and divides fans in equal measure. With both teams eager to secure a spot in the final against Jamaica, who edged past Trinidad & Tobago with a 3-2 victory, the stakes couldn't be higher.
As fans around the world tune in, the anticipation builds for what promises to be a captivating chapter in the Nigeria-Ghana football saga.
Emmanuel Eboué, once known for his marauding runs down the right flank as a key player for Arsenal and the Ivory Coast national team, has embarked on a new chapter in his football career. Now serving as an assistant general coordinator at the 2025 TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt, Eboué has taken on the challenge of supporting the next generation of African talent, bringing his vast experience to a different side of the game.
Eboué’s journey from the pitches of the Premier League and the cauldron of the Africa Cup of Nations to a leadership role in football administration is a testament to his enduring love for the sport. Known for his boundless energy, infectious personality, and fierce competitive spirit, Eboué was a fan favourite during his playing days at Arsenal, where he made over 130 appearances and reached the UEFA Champions League final in 2006.
After retiring from professional football, Eboué faced a series of personal and financial struggles that were widely reported in the media. However, his resilience and determination to rebuild his life have brought him back into the footballing fold, this time as a mentor and leader for the next generation.
A New Challenge at the U-20 AFCON
As Assistant General Coordinator at the U-20 AFCON, Eboué’s responsibilities include overseeing matchday operations, coordinating with teams and officials, and ensuring the smooth running of the tournament. His role also involves guiding young players and helping them navigate the pressures of high-stakes international football.
"I see myself in many of these young players," Eboué said in a recent interview. "They have dreams of playing at the highest level, just like I did. My job is to make sure they have the best possible environment to showcase their talent."
Eboué’s presence has already had a noticeable impact. Known for his outgoing personality and ability to connect with players, he has become a popular figure among the teams and staff in Egypt. His experience playing in some of the world’s most competitive leagues has given him a unique perspective on the challenges young African players face as they strive to reach the top.
The Bigger Picture
Eboué’s role at the U-20 AFCON reflects a broader effort by CAF to involve former players in the development of African football. By drawing on the experience of ex-professionals like Eboué, CAF aims to inspire the next generation and ensure that African football continues to thrive on the global stage.
As the tournament progresses, Eboué’s influence is likely to grow, both on and off the pitch. For a man who has already overcome so much in his personal and professional life, this new chapter represents both a fresh challenge and a chance to give back to the sport that has defined his life.
Emmanuel Eboué’s journey from the bright lights of the Premier League to the sidelines of the U-20 AFCON is a powerful reminder of the enduring power of football to inspire and uplift. As he continues to support the next generation of African stars, his story stands as a testament to resilience, reinvention, and the unbreakable spirit of the beautiful game
Emmanuel Eboué's New Role in African Football
