Ghana’s Black Galaxies will take on eternal rivals Nigeria in the first leg of the CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) final qualifier on Sunday, December 22, 2024, at the Accra Sports Stadium. Kickoff is set for 16:00 GMT.
Having commenced preparations in October, the Black Galaxies, under the guidance of head coach Mas-Ud Didi Dramani, are leaving no stone unturned. The team’s training has been rigorous, with their final 26-man squad announced on Friday, selected based on form, fitness, club performances, and tactical suitability.
Both nations are vying for a spot in the 2025 CHAN tournament, set to be co-hosted by Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda. The rivalry adds an extra layer of intensity, as the two West African football powerhouses face off in what promises to be a fierce contest.
Ghana has the psychological edge, having ousted Nigeria in the qualifiers for the 2023 CHAN tournament. Coach Dramani’s side will aim to replicate that success and secure qualification to the upcoming competition.
The Black Galaxies began their buildup at the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence in Prampram with an initial 32-man squad, which has since been trimmed. The team’s preparations underscore the importance of strategy, mental toughness, and execution ahead of this crucial encounter.
The return leg is scheduled for Saturday, December 28, at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, Nigeria, where the aggregate winner will book their place in the prestigious tournament.
Match Officials
Togolese referee Aklesso Gnama will officiate the match in Accra, supported by assistants Jonathan Ahonto Koffi and Wassiou Tchamolla Ourotou. Kossi Fabrice Senyo will serve as the fourth official. Liberian Ivan Gartor Brown is the Match Commissioner, while Hugues Alain Adjovi from Benin and Atte Claude Elloh from Cote D’Ivoire will take on roles as Referee Assessor and Security Officer, respectively.
This CHAN tournament, exclusively featuring players who compete in their domestic leagues, is a unique platform for showcasing local talent. With the first leg taking place on Ghanaian soil, the Black Galaxies will look to capitalize on home support to gain an advantage before the decisive return leg.
