No cameras, no fans: Nigeria vs Ghana Jollof Derby to be played in secret – no broadcast allowed

Nigeria Super Falcons.

No cameras, no fans: Nigeria vs Ghana Jollof Derby to be played in secret – no broadcast allowed

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 09:12 - 29.06.2025

Nigeria’s Super Falcons and Ghana’s Black Queens will face off in a behind-closed-doors Jollof Derby friendly with no live broadcast, as both teams prepare tactically ahead of WAFCON 2024.

In a surprising move, Nigeria’s Super Falcons have confirmed that their final pre-WAFCON friendly against their fierce rivals Ghana’s Black Queens will be played behind closed doors, with no live TV broadcast or streaming available. 

The highly anticipated "Jollof Derby," a match steeped in West African football rivalry and cultural pride, will unfold in secrecy.

The Intense Rivalry and Stakes Ahead of WAFCON

The Jollof Derby is more than just a football game, it symbolises the deep-rooted competition between Nigeria and Ghana, two West African powerhouses. 

Ghana’s Black Queens come into the match on the back of impressive recent friendlies, including a 3-1 win over Malawi and a thrilling 4-2 comeback against the Benin Republic, led by stars like Princella Adubea and the skilful Nina Norshie.

Super Falcons are Africa's WAFCON queens.

Meanwhile, Nigeria’s Super Falcons approach the clash after a disciplined 0-0 draw with Portugal, with goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie’s outstanding performance keeping the team competitive. 

Though a friendly, the match carries significant weight as both teams prepare for the upcoming WAFCON tournament, where Nigeria aims for a historic 10th title.

Ghana's Black Queens are in fine form.

Tactical Reasons Behind the Closed-Door Decision

Despite the excitement surrounding the fixture, Nigerian fans will be denied the chance to watch their team’s final warm-up before WAFCON. 

The Super Falcons announced on social media that the game will not be televised or streamed for tactical reasons.

The team stated:

“It’s the Jollof Derby as we take on our West African sisters, Ghana, in a behind-closed-doors friendly, our final tune-up before WAFCON 2024 kicks off! No broadcast for tactical reasons, but we’ll keep you posted with key updates and the full-time result. One last battle before the big stage, let’s finish strong.”

This decision shows the high stakes and strategic preparation both teams are undertaking ahead of the continental showdown, leaving fans keen for updates but unable to witness the drama live.

Nigeria's Super Falcons battled Portugal to a draw on Monday evening.

The secretive nature of this encounter only adds to the intrigue of the Jollof Derby, as Nigeria and Ghana prepare for what promises to be a fiercely contested WAFCON tournament.