Tuesday will be a big day for West African rivals Nigeria and Ghana when they face-off at the M.K.O Abiola National Stadium in a match that is likely to have much-needed results for both teams with kickoff at 8 pm.
The spoils were shared in a scoreless draw when Africa’s two leading teams faced each other in the first leg of their World Cup qualifier on Friday evening.
Both sides were equally guilty of a lethargic display and lack of cutting edge at the attacking end of the pitch as they settled for a share of a goalless draw. Both sides will be hoping to advance through to the World Cup.
Nigeria returned home, claiming two wins from their last nine games in 2019, while they have drawn four times and lost three times. They enjoyed a fine group-stage campaign, winning four and claiming one draw from six games to collect 13 points and finish top of Group C, two points ahead of runners-up Cape Verde.
In contrast, Ghana managed a 1-0 victory over South Africa. However, they have since lost three and drawn two of their subsequent matches, making a disappointing exit at the Africa Cup of Nations with just one point from three games.
Nigeria vs. Ghana Head to Head
Both sides have seven games against each other, with hosts taking one win while visitors with three wins. Here is a look at their previous encounters:
Home
- Ghana 0-0 Nigeria
- Nigeria 0-1 Tunisia
- Guinea-Bissau 0-2 Nigeria
- Nigeria 3-1 Sudan
- Nigeria 1-0 Egypt
Away
- Ghana 0-0 Nigeria
- Ghana 2-3 Comoros
- Gabon 1-1 Ghana
- Morocco 1-0 Ghana
- Algeria 3-0 Ghana
Nigeria Team News
If Eguavoen chooses to implement some changes, including inserting Emmanuel Dennis or Kelechi Iheanacho at the tip of his attack, then Victor Osimhen would play on the left side. Ademola Lookman could be brought in for Moses Simon.
Ghana Team News
Ghana expects the return of Andre Ayew for the second leg, adding a much-needed boost to their squad after his suspension during the first leg. He should start alongside brother Jordan Ayew and Roma youngster Felix Afena-Gyan.
Prediction and Odds
We expect the Black Stars to defeat Nigeria, but we predict Nigeria will win by one goal.
- Draw
- Double Chance
- Extra Time
