Ghana’s Black Satellites are gearing up for a highly anticipated final against Nigeria in the West Africa Football Union (WAFU) Zone B Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier, set to take place later today.

Following a thrilling 2-1 comeback victory over Côte d'Ivoire in the semi-finals, Coach Desmond Offei has promised to deliver the trophy to Ghanaians.

In a post-match interview, Offei expressed his pride in the team’s performance and emphasised the importance of this final. 

“The nation needs this victory, to be honest, and we are very happy because this will elevate what we are doing behind the scenes and take it to the next level for sure. We are bringing the Cup home, 100 per cent,” he declared.

Rivalry

The match against Nigeria holds significant weight, not only as a chance to claim the trophy but also to settle a long-standing rivalry. 

Both teams have already secured their spots in the upcoming Under-20 AFCON, but the desire to assert dominance adds an extra layer of motivation. Ghana boasts four AFCON titles and a World Cup trophy, while Nigeria leads with seven AFCON titles.

This clash marks a rematch of sorts, as Ghana previously denied Nigeria a place in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar during their World Cup play-off in Abuja. 

This is why Coach Aliyu Zubairu will be eager to avenge that defeat and prevent the Black Satellites from clinching their second subcontinental trophy.

Meanwhile, today's game will be officiated by Bado Benoit from Burkina Faso. Benoit will be assisted by Eba Médard Wenceslas Ettien (Assistant I) from Côte d'Ivoire and Djaria Bio Bangana Yacoubou (Assistant II) from Benin. Kossi Fabrice Senyo from Togo will be the Fourth Official.