Nigeria vs Ghana: Ogunmodede and Dramani talk tough ahead of CHAN 2025 decider in Uyo

Ghana boss, Mas-Ud Didi Dramani and Super Eagles B stand-in coach, Daniel Ogunmodede, have both exchange words ahead of their deciding 2025 CHAN qualifying clash, Soccernet.ng reports. 

The long-standing football rivalry between Nigeria and Ghana takes centre stage again as the Super Eagles B and the Black Galaxies prepare for their decisive second-leg encounter in the 8th African Nations Championship qualifiers on Saturday at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.

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Both teams remain determined to secure a spot in the CHAN finals, with the first leg in Accra ending goalless despite Ghana creating more chances. Black Galaxies’ coach, Dramani, is confident his side can capitalise on opportunities this time around.

“We were unlucky not to score in Accra, but tomorrow is another chance to get the goals and book our place in the CHAN finals,” Dramani said during the pre-match press conference. “It’s never easy playing against Nigeria, but we will approach this match with an attacking mindset.”

In recent CHAN and international tournaments, Ghana has been a thorn in Nigeria’s side. The Black Stars denied Nigeria World Cup qualification for Qatar 2022 and eliminated the Super Eagles from previous CHAN editions in 2009, 2014, and 2023. However, Ogunmodede is determined to break the cycle.

“History doesn’t matter in this game,” Ogunmodede declared, as quoted by NFF comms. “We are not distracted by past results. Our focus is on winning tomorrow and securing qualification. The team is prepared physically, mentally, and psychologically, and we urge our fans to come out in large numbers to support us.”

Fan support could prove crucial, as Ogunmodede emphasised the role the crowd played during the first leg in Accra. The Nigerian coach hopes for a similar atmosphere in Uyo to spur his players to victory.