A new instalment of the ‘jollof wars’ will take centre stage as the Super Eagles of Nigeria face a familiar foe, the Black Stars of Ghana, in an international friendly this Friday in Morocco.
This match holds more significance than just friendly bragging rights, as both teams gear up for their crucial World Cup qualifiers in June.
While the Super Eagles aim to bounce back from a shaky start in their qualifying campaign (only two points from two games), they'll have to do so without some key players. Victor Osimhen, the reigning African Player of the Year, and fellow attacker Taiwo Awoniyi are sidelined with injuries.
Two defenders, Tyronne Ebuehi and new call-up Gabriel Osho will also miss the Ghana and Mali games.
This presents an opportunity for other players to step up and stake their claim for a starting spot in the upcoming qualifiers.
Ghana, who inflicted a heartbreaking World Cup qualifying defeat on Nigeria in March 2022, also came into this match missing some key players, including in-form West Ham forward Mohammed Kudus.
This friendly offers a chance for both sides to experiment with tactics and test the depth of their squads.
A history of close battles
The rivalry between Nigeria and Ghana is well-documented, with both teams boasting a combined seven Africa Cup of Nations titles. Their recent encounters have been particularly tense, often decided by narrow margins.
Fans will undoubtedly remember the gut-wrenching 1-1 draw in Abuja back in 2022 that saw Thomas Partey's goal send Ghana to the World Cup at Nigeria's expense.
That day, on a hot sunny evening in Abuja, will forever be etched in the minds of Nigerians as the Eagles huffed and puffed to no avail.
It was the first time since the 2010 edition that the Eagles missed the World Cup.
A chance for redemption and new heroes
However, Friday's match presents a fresh start. The absence of some established stars opens the door for new heroes to emerge.
It will also be the first time in two years that the team will be without Portuguese coach Jose Peseiro, who left the team after leading them to second place at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Nigeria can bank on the experience of Ademola Lookman, whose stellar performance at the 2023 AFCON helped propel the Super Eagles to the final.
Additionally, familiar faces like Moses Simon, Kelechi Iheanacho, and Sadiq Umar will be eager to impress Coach Finidi George.
Umar missed the tournament through injury while Iheanacho was a peripheral figure during the campaign with limited minutes.
Defensively, George may opt for a back-line of Chidozie Awaziem, Kenneth Omeruo, Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, and Jamilu Collins who returns to the team after failing to make the final cut for the AFCON.
Chippa United goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali is expected to start in goal after earning the number one spot due to his heroics at the Nations Cup.
The midfield could see a combination of Alex Iwobi, Frank Onyeka, and Wilfred Ndidi who is expected to captain the team in the absence of Ahmed Musa and the injured William Troost-Ekong.
This friendly serves as a vital warm-up for both Nigeria and Ghana as they prepare for their crucial World Cup qualifiers in June.
While victory will be important for bragging rights as it usually is with this fixture at all levels and every sport, the real focus will be on identifying new talent, testing tactics, and building momentum for the challenges ahead.
Super Eagles squad in camp
Goalkeepers
Stanley Nwabali, Francis Uzoho, Ojo Olorunleke
Defenders
Chidozie Awaziem, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Bruno Onyemaechi, Kenneth Omeruo, Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, Jamilu Collins, Benjamin Tianimu
Midfielders
Wilfred Ndidi, Raphael Onyedika, Alhassan Yusuf, Frank Onyeka, Alex Iwobi
Forwards
Nathan Tella, Kelechi Iheanacho, Sadiq Umar, Moses Simon, Ademola Lookman, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, Cyriel Dessers
