Super Eagles star Cyriel Dessers celebrates Nigeria's thrilling Unity Cup semifinal win over Ghana on the occasion of his seventh cap.
Cyriel Dessers has spoken out following his standout performance that helped Nigeria’s Super Eagles defeat Ghana in the Unity Cup semifinal on Wednesday night.
The 30-year-old striker celebrated his return to the national team with his seventh cap and third goal, firing Nigeria ahead just 15 minutes into a tense and competitive match.
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Dessers was a constant threat throughout the first half, during which Nigeria dominated the opening 45 minutes at the Brentford Stadium in London.
His early goal set the tone, before Semi Ajayi rose above the Ghanaian defence to head home Nigeria’s second goal, although it came off a Ghanaian defender six minutes later.
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Despite Ghana’s spirited fightback in the second half, pulling a goal back to keep hopes alive, the Super Eagles held firm to secure a 2-1 victory, earning bragging rights in the heated Jollof Derby.
After the match, Dessers, who now boasts an impressive three goals in just four starts for Nigeria, took to social media to share his excitement.
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On X (formerly Twitter), he posted:
“Naijaaaaa 🇳🇬 Derby win v Ghana, let’s gooo!”
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This win was a much-needed boost for new head coach Eric Chelle, who sought redemption after the team’s disappointing draw against Zimbabwe in their previous outing.
With this victory, Nigeria advances to the final, where it will face Caribbean kings Jamaica in the tournament’s decisive match this weekend.
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Meanwhile, Ghana’s Black Stars will take on their counterparts from Trinidad and Tobago in the classification game on Saturday.
The Super Eagles look poised to continue their strong run, with Dessers playing a decisive role in their quest for Unity Cup glory.