The Super Eagles of Nigeria on Saturday, May 31, 2025, gave their fans something to smile about, when they lifted this year’s Unity Cup after edging out Jamaica 5-4 on penalties.
The Unity Cup is a four-nation tournament, and this year’s edition featured Nigeria, Ghana, Trinidad and Tobago, and Jamaica.
The Super Eagles did not come to this competition with notable names like former African footballer of the year, Victor Osimhen, and reigning African footballer of the year, Ademola Lookman.
The Super Eagles came into the final, on the back of defeating Ghana 2-1, while Jamaica edged out Trinidad and Tobago 3-2.
It was a game between the best team in West Africa against the best team in the West Indies, right at the Gtech community Staadium, in West London.
The game was keenly contested as both side played with great determination and strength, which drew a few foul calls.
The Super Eagles were captained by Moses Simon, who stood in for Captain Troost Ekong who did not come for the competition.
The Super Eagles took the lead inside the 9th minute through skipper Moses Simon, with the assist from Cyril Dessers.
But the Reggae boys responded quickly, as in less than 3 minutes after the Super Eagles took the lead.
The equalizer came through Kaheim Dixon.
The game ended 1-1 at half time.
The Super Eagles restored their lead inside the 53rd minute, through Samuel Chukwueze, who, despite being outnumbered in the Jamaican box, stood his ground before unleashing a shot which beat the Jamaican goalie.
The Reggae boys levelled scores again through Russell inside the 63rd minute.
The Super Eagles missed a couple of scoring chances, as the game ended 2-2 in regulation time.
There was no extra time, and the game had to be settled on penalties.
The Super Eagles scored all five of their kicks, while Jamaica’s Dwayne Atkinson, missed the 4th kick for the Reggae Boys, hitting the crossbar.
The game thus ended 5-4 on penalties, in favour of the Super Eagles, with Uche Chrisantus on his debut for the Eagles, taking the final penalty.
The match took place at the Gtech Community Stadium in London.
This edition of the tournament was the third in its history.
The Unity Cup 2025 not only showcased exciting football but also celebrated the rich cultural diversity of the participating nations.
The tournament’s blend of sport, music, and community spirit made it a memorable event for fans and players alike.
This competition serves as a tune-up for the Super Eagles who are preparing for the World Cup qualifiers in September and October this year.
