Super Eagles of Nigeria will reignite their fierce rivalry with Ghana in an exciting June international friendly.
The match, scheduled alongside a friendly against Russia, will serve as a crucial tune-up ahead of Nigeria’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and South Africa in September.
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Head coach Eric Chelle confirmed the fixture, highlighting its importance in the team’s preparations:
“We will use these games to prepare for the World Cup qualifiers. After that, our focus shifts to the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN) in July before returning to World Cup duty later in the year.”
A Rivalry Rekindled
The Super Eagles edged Ghana 2-1 in their last friendly in March, with Cyriel Dessers and Ademola Lookman finding the net.
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Nigeria also triumphed in the CHAN qualifiers, winning 3-1 on aggregate.
However, history favors Ghana, who lead the all-time record with 22 wins to Nigeria’s 13 with 21 draws.
Super Eagles Struggling in World Cup Race
This friendly comes at a critical time for Nigeria, whose World Cup qualification campaign is faltering.
The Super Eagles defeated Rwanda in Kigali but then stumbled at home, settling for a frustrating draw in Uyo.
South Africa are in the center of Mokoena’s eligibility contest with Nigeria and Lesotho. Photo by Imago
They now sit fourth in Group C with 7 points, while South Africa lead the group with 13 points—despite controversy surrounding Teboho Mokoena’s suspension issues.
With crucial qualifiers against Rwanda and South Africa in September 2025, the Super Eagles must use these friendlies to regain their form or risk falling further behind in the World Cup race.
