Nigeria’s Super Eagles secured a spot in the Unity Cup final with a 2-1 win over Ghana on a chilly night at Brentford’s Gtech Community Stadium.
While the Jollof Derby always stirs emotions, this meeting was more than just bragging rights, it was an audition.
With several regulars missing, interim coach Eric Chelle handed opportunities to home-based players hoping to break into the senior fold ahead of AFCON qualifiers.
A Ghana own goal and a well-taken strike by Cyriel Dessers sealed the win, but all eyes were on the NPFL quintet handed minutes. Three started; Papa Daniel Mustapha, Sikiru Alimi, and Sodiq Ismail while Ahmed Musa, Collins Ugwueze and Emmanuel Onyebuchi came on in the second half.
Here’s how they fared.
Sodiq Ismail – 7/10
Often described in local circles as the “Dani Alves of the NPFL,” Ismail showed just why his name keeps popping up in Super Eagles discussions. He wasted no time making an impression, delivering the cross that led to Nigeria’s first goal via a Ghanaian defender’s misfortune.
But it wasn’t just the assist. The right-back’s energy on the flank was relentless. He joined attacks with intent, overlapping effectively and tracking back when needed.
Remo Stars Sodiq Ismail with a beautiful cross for Cyriel Dessers to open the scoring for the Super Eagles on his return 🇳🇬🦅
— Micolo⚡️ (@official_micolo) May 28, 2025
There was a momentary lapse that earned him a yellow card, but overall, Ismail put in a display that should keep him in future conversations.
Papa Daniel Mustapha 6/10
In midfield, Niger Tornadoes’ Papa Daniel offered something many foreign-based players often neglect, composure under pressure.
What would you rate his performance today?⬇️
Papa Daniel of @NigerTornadoes#NGAGHA #SuperEagles #UnityCup2025 pic.twitter.com/kB6HiLBvA7
— NPFL Insider (@NPFLInsider) May 28, 2025
He wasn’t flashy, but his positional discipline helped Nigeria control spells of possession, particularly in the first half.
While Wilfred Ndidi and Frank Onyeka carried much of the load defensively, Papa Daniel filled gaps intelligently, recycling possession and helping Nigeria transition smoothly. He may not grab headlines, but his assured display should earn him more chances.
Sikiru Alimi 5.5/10
Handed a start alongside Dessers, Alimi worked hard but struggled to influence proceedings. He pressed diligently and tried to hold up the ball, but the service to him was often rushed or misdirected.
With Dessers scoring and stretching the Ghanaian backline, Alimi was largely reduced to decoy runs. It wasn’t a poor performance, but he’ll know he needs more cutting edge to remain in Chelle’s plans.
