No Osimhen, no Lookman: 7 Super Eagles players to watch in Nigeria vs Ghana, including a left-footed magician

The long-standing rivalry between Nigeria and Ghana will be reignited tonight in London as both nations clash in the second game of The Unity Cup 2025.

With squads largely revamped and some big names like Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Kudus Mohamed absent, the spotlight falls on a new crop of Super Eagles stars keen to make their mark.

Here are seven players to watch from Eric Chelle’s Super Eagles as they aim to get the better of their bitter rivals:

The captain of Ikorodu City, the baby of the league in the Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL), Waliu Ojetoye has impressed many with his leadership and defensive ability.

The right-back is expected to battle for a starting spot against one-cap Super Eagle Ismail Sodiq, the Remo Stars wonderboy.

Known for his ball-carrying ability and marauding runs from defense to attack, Ojetoye is a dynamic presence on the right flank who contributed 1 goal and 10 assists last season for the Oga Boys.

The latest addition to the Super Eagles, German-born Felix Agu plays for Bundesliga side Werder Bremen.

Initially brought in just for training while the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) secured his switch of allegiance, Agu has now been cleared to represent Nigeria officially.

The versatile defender is noted for his blistering pace and composure on the ball, comfortable defending and contributing to attacks.

One of the most anticipated names in the squad, Chrisantus Uche, finally joins the Super Eagles after an impressive season with Getafe in LaLiga, where he contributed 10 goals.

The 22-year-old is a physical powerhouse capable of playing in central midfield or as an emergency center forward, offering flexibility and strength.

With some of the usual suspect missing the Unity Cup, Uche is expected to get his chance in the four-nation tourney.

A familiar face in clashes against Ghana, Papa Daniel Mustapha is one of the most exciting NPFL talents.

He played a key role in ending Nigeria’s six-year CHAN exile by helping the Super Eagles B team destroy the Black Stars en route to booking a ticket.

Known for his magical left foot, Mustapha will be eager to show his skills against the local Black Stars once again.

The veteran striker and former Al Nassr star will captain the side against Ghana.

Despite divided opinions about his inclusion, Musa remains Nigeria’s all-time top scorer at the FIFA World Cup.

With 10 non-penalty goals scored for Kano Pillars this season in the football league, this is his chance to remind fans why he remains a national icon.

A revelation at Enugu Rangers, Isaac Saviour is a gifted midfielder with a flair for the spectacular.

Despite his modest height, Isaac’s creativity and skill have made him one of the NPFL’s most watchable talents.

With nine goals last season from midfield, he will be looking to seize his opportunity on the international stage.

Rounding out the list is striker Cyril Dessers, who scored an impressive 28 goals across competitions this season with Rangers.

Though he divides opinion among fans and critics, Dessers has a knack for scoring against Ghana, having opened the Finidi George era with a goal against the Black Stars.

The 30-year-old could well be the starting striker in this crucial encounter.

With both teams set to battle it out in London, these seven players will be key figures to watch as the Super Eagles seek to assert their dominance and claim victory in this historic rivalry.