NIGERIA VS. GHANA: SUPER EAGLES' POSSIBLE STARTING XI FOR UNITY CUP OPENER

Ghana vs Nigeria. Unity Cup 2025. There are football fixtures that raise eyebrows, and then there are those that raise blood pressure. Nigeria vs Ghana falls squarely in the latter category.

A rivalry steeped in pride, history and passion, it’s always more than just a friendly match.

And on Wednesday evening at the Gtech Community Stadium in London, Eric Chelle’s Super Eagles will walk out with one mission: beat Ghana, reach the Unity Cup final, and set up a tasty showdown with Jamaica.

It will be only Chelle’s third game in charge of Nigeria since his January appointment, and while it’s early days, there’s a growing sense of identity taking shape under the Franco-Malian tactician.

Super Eagles and head coach Eric Chelle. Photo Credit X

His preferred 4-4-2 diamond system, already glimpsed against Rwanda and Zimbabwe in March, is expected to remain his weapon of choice as the Super Eagles face their fiercest rivals under the London lights.

GOALKEEPER: Nwabali stands alone

It’s not just a case of first-choice, it’s also one of only-choice. With Maduka Okoye and Amas Obasogie yet to report to camp, Stanley Nwabali will unsurprisingly retain the gloves.

Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali. Photo Credit X

The Chippa United keeper has grown into the role since his AFCON heroics, and while his distribution still draws scrutiny, his calm presence and shot-stopping instinct could be vital against a fiery Ghanaian frontline.

DEaFENCE: Ajayi returns, Ismaila gets the nod

Right-back seems settled: Sadiq Ismaila, fresh off guiding Remo Stars to their historic first NPFL title, is expected to edge out Werder Bremen’s Felix Agu.

Nigeria Super Eagles and Werder Bremen star Felix Agu. Photo by IMAGO

Ismaila brings pace, hunger and an increasingly mature defensive IQ. The youngster will be eager to ensure that the absence of Ola Aina and Bright Osayi-Samuel is not heavily felt.

In the heart of defence, Semi Ajayi returns – clubless but trusted – and likely pairs with Igho Ogbu, who is yet to make his debut but impressed Chelle enough in camp to be rated ahead of Rangers lad Ifeanyi Onyebuchi.

Nigeria and Slavia Prague defender Igoh Ogbu. Photo Credit X

Ogbu has quietly developed into one of Slavia Prague’s most reliable defenders in the Czech league and offers composure under pressure.

Left-back? That’s Bruno Onyemaechi’s territory. The Olympiacos man combines tactical awareness with attacking verve.

While Felix Agu could eventually challenge him for that role long-term, for now, Onyemaechi’s shirt is safe.

- Imhonlamhen Eronmhonsele