Ghana’s Black Galaxies have an arduous task ahead after being held to a goalless draw by Nigeria at the Accra Sports Stadium in the first leg of the Africa Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifiers.
Didi Dramani’s side dominated possession but did not do enough to unlock the resolute defense of the Super Eagles B team.
After an uneventful first 45 minutes, the Galaxies came out of the blocks with an improved attack, with Mustapha Yabuku forcing a save from Nigerian goalkeeper Henry Ozoemena with a left-footed strike.
However, Nigeria had the closest chance when Papa Daniel Mustapha’s long-range belter, which took a deflection, hit the post just before the hour mark.
Didi brought on Medeama's prodigy Derrick Fordjour and Thought FC's 17-year-old Jerry Afriyie, who scored on his Black Stars debut against Niger, in an attempt to change the fortunes of the Galaxies, but the visitors held on firmly to walk away undefeated.
The second leg takes place on December 28 in Nigeria at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium.
The winner will qualify for the 2025 CHAN tournament, which is set to be hosted jointly by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.
Credit: Haruna Mubarak