Nigeria beat Ghana by a lone goal in a friendly match organised to commemorate the opening of the new ultra-modern Akwa Ibom International Stadium, Uyo, and win the Transformation Cup on Friday night.
The Super Eagles, made up of mostly players from the domestic league, dominated Ghana’s U-23 men’s national team in the match watched by the presidents of Ghana, Dramani Mahama, Cote d’Ivoire, Alassane Quattara, and host, Goodluck Jonathan.
Home favourite Emem Eduok made history by becoming the first player to score in an official match at the magnificent 30,000 capacity stadium, getting on the edge of a well-taken cross by Sunshine Stars defender Solomon Kwambe to thump home a superb header few minutes after the half hour.
The Dolphins striker almost doubled Eagles’ lead in the 56th minute only for his low volley from the edge of the goal area to miss target with Ghana goalkeeper Richard Ofori caught flat-footed.
A minute later, Eduok delivered a cross from the left to fellow Akwa-Ibomite, Mfon Udoh, whose effort came off the woodwork.
Black Meteors defender Yamoah Richard was sent off for an innocuous tackle on Tony Edjomarigwe two minutes from time.
Assistant coach Daniel Amokachi led out the team while Stephen Keshi watched from the stands.
Nigeria starting XI vs Ghana:
Chigozie Agbim; Solomon Kwambe, Chima Akas, Umar Zango, Azubuike Egwuekwe; Bobby Sokari, Rabiu Ali, Joseph Nathaniel; Gbolahan Salami, Emem Eduok, Osaguona Ighodaro.
