Nigeria vs Ghana: Venue, time, key players, kick off times, expectations for ‘jollof derby’

Historically the best teams on the continent, both sides are arguably at different ends of the form ladder at the moment.

Nigeria had an arguably successful tournament at the just-ended African Cup of Nations tournament in Cote d’Ivoire while Ghana had a disastrous outing.

Despite starting the tournament poorly, the Super Eagles managed to rediscover their form through to the finals where they lost to the host country.

Ghana, meanwhile failed to make it through to the second round after failing to record any victory in the tournament.

The game is scheduled for the Grand de Stade in Marrakech, Morocco at at 5:00 pm Nigerian Time (WAT) – which is 3:00 pm GMT and 4:00 pm Moroccan Time.

Both sides will be missing key players. Napoli striker, Victor Osimhen, withdrew from the squad due to injury, with the likes of Taiwo Awoniyi, Gabriel Osho, and Tyronne Ebuehi also ruled out of the tie. Defenders, Kenneth Omeruo and Calvin Bassey are also a doubt after missing the second training session on Wednesday, March 20.

The Black Stars will also miss the services of Thomas Partey, Inaki Williams, Joseph Paintsil, and Mohammed Kudus.

The Super Eagles can boast of some available key players including Ademola Lookman, Alex Iwobi, Stanley Nwabali, and Moses Simon. The Black Stars still have Jordan Ayew, Antoine Semenyo, Andre Ayew, and Fatawu Issahaku

Expectations

Both teams will have new managers in the dugout. Interim coach, Finidi George, will lead the Super Eagles while Otto Addo returns to the bench for the Black Stars.

The last two games between both sides ended in a draw during the World Cup qualifying playoffs in 2022.

Ghana had the last laugh in that meeting, so Nigeria would be seeking revenge against the Black Stars.

Both teams are expected to bring their A-game, and the players will be out to impress their new managers.