The Black Galaxies of Ghana on Sunday defeated their counterpart from Nigeria by 2 goals to nil in the first leg of the final qualification games for the 2022 Championship of African Nations (CHAN) in Algeria.
The two West African bitterest rivals played a barren first half draw after both wasted begging opportunities.
However, Ghana broke the deadlock in the 50th through Accra Heart of Oak’ Daniel Afriyie Barnieh spot kick.
One of the Nigerian defender handled the ball in the 18-yard box and the centre referee from Togo had no option but to whistle for a penalty.
Brave Daniel Afriyie elected himself for the spot kick and he cleverly put the ball in the box at the blind side of the helpless Nigerian goalkeeper.
The team from Nigeria nearly equalised in the 65th but a brave save from Asante Kotoko goalie, Ibrahim Danlad ensured the score line remained a goal to nil in favour of Ghana.
Ghana scored their second as final goal courtesy Suraj Seidu.
Midfielder Bashiru Omar’s teasing passed found Dennis Korsah, who brilliantly crossed the ball to the path of Suraj Seidu.
The Nigeria goal. keeper failed to save Suraj’s header and the latter quickly latched onto the ball to make it 2:0 in favour of Ghana.
Ghana go to the second leg of the game in Abuja, Nigeria, knowing that a draw or a win for the Black Galaxies will see them book a place in Algeria.
The Black Galaxies beat Benin in the first leg at the Cape Coast Sports Stadium before completing the job in Cotonou in the reverse fixture to give Ghana a 4:9 win.
Ghana haven’t qualified for the Championship of African Nations for the last eight years.
